how to tape german shepherd puppy ears
We are overjoyed for you! Golden Retrievers are one of the most friendly and loving breeds…and lucky for you, one of the easiest to train. Golden Retrievers require a great deal of mental stimulation to avoid going about on their own or becoming frustrated. Their love for food is infinite. Prerequisites for training my Golden Retriever puppy? What age can I start to train my Golden Retriever puppy? Sounds like a good deal! We can only hope. What do I need to train my Golden Retriever? Say bye to that sticky, meaty feeling in your fingertips. A piece of non-slip vet bed or a soft mat: For a cozy bed, warm nights, and good dreams. Treats: The more smelly, the better. Two identical toys : Great for swaps! The name says it all…your Golden Retriever puppy will love retrieving, so identical toys will be great for all the games we have in store for you in the Zigzag Puppy training app. Of course, Golden Retrievers grow to be big dogs. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? A golden retriever needs 2 hours of exercise a day. What age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? Golden Retrievers reach adulthood at 3 years of age and are seniors by 8 years old. Though their height has been reached, their weight will still fill out and they will continue to mentally mature. What are Golden Retrievers bred for? Distinctly British, the 1st Baron of Tweedmouth developed the breed crossing his golden colored retrieving dog Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel — these look similar to Irish Water Spaniels. The cross resulted in a dog that was comfortable being on land and water kind of like crocodiles , and robust enough to hunt goose, partridge and even deer. Do Golden Retrievers make good family pets? In fact, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds in the UK. The Kennel Club has a lot more good information and info about them. What does this have to do with how I train my Golden Retriever puppy? But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Golden Retriever better: Golden Retrievers love to work. Commonly employed as Guide Dogs, they love having a job to do, which means they will adore training. Anyhow, they will be a breeze to train. They will also do almost anything for your soft words and approval — your praise will work just as well as treats. Because they are so gentle, they are a great fit for families with a variety of lifestyles and ages. They need a good amount of exercise; mental as well as physical. Let us rephrase — a hefty amount of exercise. Besides you and food, being in water is what they love the most! They have a very strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of dogs. They love most people, and are not discreet in showing it. You know how us Brits can be about politeness. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! But it can also be less helpful when they give you a love bite on your arm — give them a toy to carry instead. Shift to some play, and revisit training later — we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. It might work great for them, but we can see how your schedule is looking a bit hectic at the moment. Just with a little sprinkle of puppy love. Behold; the ultimate daily puppy routine is here. It includes everything you and your puppy needs to end on a good note; from playtimes, to feeding time, and bathroom breaks, and more. Wake up and bathroom time- am — am Waking up and going to the bathroom together when you start the day. They happen so swiftly after one another that they almost look as if they happen at the same time. Time to ponder — am — am After such an early bathroom break, see if your puppy feels like dozing off for a little longer. If they do, feel free to close your eyes for a while more. Rise and shine! Breakfast — am Time for brekkie. Feed them their kibble inside a Kong or a puzzle feeder to keep them busy while you wake yourself up with a nice cup of hot coffee, and a full English Breakfast. You should definitely treat yourself after such an early start, after all. Bathroom Break — am Time for a trip to the zoo. Whoops sorry — meant to say loo. Better yet, these potty breaks are a massive opportunity to treat them for going in the right place, making potty training work much faster. Take around 10 minutes to fit in a bit of training practice and playtime. Our blog here goes into more detail about what training or lessons you should focus on each week. Bathroom Break — am Yep, another trip to the loo. Nap Time — am After all the excitement of food, poo and play, your puppy will probably want to nod off for one or two hours. Maybe minutes. Bathroom Break — am After a little kip, a trip to the loo is nothing to skip. Can you tell we had to make it rhyme. At brunch, you should probably feed your puppy about a quarter of their daily food portion. You can take the opportunity to work on some crate training exercises like feeding them their meal inside the crate. We talk a lot more about crate training in our blog here if you want to know all the deets. Or any time at all to be fair. Bathroom Break — am You guessed it — after food, always go to the loo. Play and Training — am And yes! Time for some more play and training. Bathroom Break — am Back to the bathroom. Bathroom Break — pm You know it — after some good sleep, nothing feels better than a good wee. Remember to reward them after doing so in the right spot! What about teaching them their name? Bathroom Break — pm You know the drill — a good toot generally comes after some good food. Bathroom Break — pm Yup, time for a wee. Maybe you can try showing him how to walk on different surfaces? Bubble wrapping paper should be a good one to try tonight. Supper time — pm Food! Bathroom Break — pm Ah, see? Told you. But there will be more potty breaks ahead. Bathroom Break — pm Yep, time to go again. Going to the bathroom now is a good way to try and get them to not wake up in the night…although they probably will anyway. Bedtime — 00 pm — midnight Finally! Off to Bedfordshire. If they get a bit fidgety, use that soft and gentle voice of yours to calm them down, or put your fingers through the crate to comfort them. Bathroom Break — am Surprise! Wake up: 5 — am Wakey-wakey! Time to do everything all over again. Good luck! But exactly how much of each will he need? Like around 16 — 20 hours a day which is a lot. This is what their their sleeping times will look like: Mid-morning: After they have eaten, and have had time to play or train. After lunch: After food, naps are great moments for them to digest their food. At this stage, their bodies are mainly poop factories. We love it when they yawn too. Activity training or play Puppies have big juicy brains, but a short attention span. To get the most out of their training, we recommend keeping them short and sweet 5 minutes is already plenty per session so that they remember everything they learned well. Bathroom Breaks At first, your puppy will need the loo a lot. Like a lot, a lot. Everything will fall into place eventually! The ease of training dogs varies across different breeds and the age at which they are adopted. Retrievers are typically released two months after birth and ready for training. Golden Retriever puppies are easy to train because of their high social intelligence, loyalty, and desire to please; they can understand commands and positive consequences in the first few weeks. However, if you do not teach them early on, you may need to work harder to get them to unlearn bad habits. We must remember that Golden Retrievers are acclimatized to working with people and are definitely people pleasers. They were bred as hunting dogs to retrieve shot-down waterfowl and are still used today as gundogs by sportspersons to retrieve game birds. They are also used as service, therapy, and search and rescue dogs. While training a Golden Retriever is easy, you have to start early. If the dog misses the early portion of the training, the later stages draw out perpetually. By now, you know the dangers of being too late in training your dog. But what if you are too early for the party? Not if you go by the standard release time. The average breeder releases a Golden Retriever at 8 weeks old. You should train your Golden Retriever at two months old because, by that stage, he has grown enough to take cues and is sufficiently self-reliant not to need his mother to survive. He will have already learned canine behaviors by interacting with his mother and littermates, but now he can continue to learn by association. Initial training should be kept light. As mentioned in the table, it is simply a period where you establish your authority as the source of commands and rewards. You can even go 2 weeks without giving any proper training to your freshly-released pup without impacting his progression. However, the 8 to week period from release to assimilation is important. A traumatic experience can have a negative and counter-productive effect during this period. Read further if you: Have a Golden Retriever older than seven weeks or plan to get a puppy Want an approximate schedule for training your pup Wish to train a dog using positive reinforcement and ethical training methods Want to commit to 1. At this point, you have to train your puppy to see you as an authority figure. Moreover, the puppy can only form the most obvious associations between command, response, and consequence, so it is crucial to adapt your training strategy accordingly. For example, you can start clapping if your pup runs toward you. Once he realizes that clapping and running toward you are linked, you can clap, and he will run toward you. For now, notice the following and set distinct anchors for each. Each anchor has to be hard to confuse with every other anchor. Clapping, for instance, is an anchor that can be confused with snapping your fingers. But it is hard to confuse clapping with whistling. This melts a lot of the resistance as you train your pup to understand and respond to more complex commands. Therefore, the first step should be encouraging your Golden Retriever to follow you. As you may know, dogs evolved from wolves, and wolves follow the pack leader usually a parent. Delaying gratification is easier for grown dogs. Young puppies get tired too quickly and spend most of their time sleeping. So if your puppy follows you, reward him with affection, hugs, and appreciation. You need to build a positive reinforcement loop and let your dog establish a connection between following you and receiving a pleasant experience. When your puppy knows that following you results in rewards, you can make the act of following you slightly more challenging. Things you can do may include sharp turns and sudden changes of pace. Lower Socializing Barriers Golden Retrievers are the definition of social beings. Still, their appearance and the love they receive can keep them from becoming completely asocial. But why make socialization difficult when you can facilitate it early in their lives? Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pup is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. Golden Retrievers are bundles of energy, and it would take living in a castle for one to become agoraphobic. Seeing the outdoors as soon as they are ready to take block-long walks is healthier for their social development. Start Potty Training You might wonder how long you have to wait before your Golden Retriever puppy is ready for potty training. Quite simply, your Retriever is ready for potty training the day you bring him home. Cordoning it off and adding a small fence can help him identify it more easily. Next, you need a potty training schedule, such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Moreover, many owners use dog crates to help with house training and I highly recommend you do this too. The earlier you discipline your Golden Retriever , the less harsh you need to be with him as he grows up. Biting is one of the behaviors that incur severe penalties for dogs. Golden Retrievers, fortunately, develop a soft mouth and are less likely to administer harsh bites. Still, nibbling must be discouraged so that kids, other pets, and your friends can be safe around your puppy. If you have ever given silent treatment to your spouse, you know it takes intelligence to know that you are in a timeout. So a timeout for a 2-month-old Retriever might not be the right punishment because he might not understand why he is in one. Often, an untrained Retriever puppy might snatch at a treat. After that, you can withhold the second treat and close off your body language. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Golden Retriever will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Teach Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Golden Retriever will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. How to Train a 3-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy Once you have established your authority and set initial anchors, it is time to progress the training of your Golden Retriever puppy to the next stage. Four weeks of light training is sufficient for setting anchors and establishing associations. That makes the 3-month mark ideal for slightly more complex commands. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. He will regress to walk behind you. He already knows how to sit and stand, and you have to use the same method you used for the heel position and command to teach your Retriever how to sit or stand on command. The method is simple. The same applies to other position commands. Since your Retriever can tell words apart, he can go into different positions based on the words you say. The anchoring process involves saying something or making a specific sound while your dog is busy holding a certain position or acting a certain way. Now is the time to start saying the words you have associated with his actions in order to inspire said actions. Where you previously whistled when your Retriever ran towards you, now you must whistle so he begins his run. This is the start of his Golden Retriever recall training. It is possible that your Retriever does not respond to the commands. There will be back and forth where you will keep saying words while the dog organically acts. After a few attempts at reinforcing the commands, you can test the triggers again. So avoid forcing your dog to be perfect on the first few attempts. This helps him be social and get close to them. He must learn to be safe and social around strangers too. After all, he has to go on walks without picking fights with people, no matter how friendly Golden Retrievers are known to be. Slowly exposing him to crowds can improve his social tolerance. The less quick he is to bark at strangers, the kinder they will be to him. This triggers a positive feedback loop where he is adored for being social, which encourages him to be more social. Paper training Constant Supervision Umbilical cord training Most people find that a combination of two or more methods works best. Crate training. Crate training offers numerous and continuous benefits throughout the life of your dog. As a tool for house training, it enables you to prevent mistakes and promote positive experiences within your home. It also gives you and your puppy a much-needed break from the stresses of training and constant supervision. Constant supervision. To avoid house-training mistakes, you have to constantly watch your puppy. Because just one mistake will create a major setback for your pup and it only takes seconds for them to have an accident. Paper training. While teaching your puppy to toilet in the house may not seem like an ideal choice, I use paper training when my pups have almost no bladder control until around 8 to 10 weeks of age. I always recommend avoiding paper training if possible. It makes training your pup to toilet outside harder, and it sends a confusing message to your puppy. They will have fewer opportunities for mistakes, which will create more positive experiences. This will allow for a faster and cleaner road to success when house training, and as an added benefit, your puppy will develop impeccable house manners a lot more quickly. Dogs will instinctively keep their den clean. Start by restricting your puppy to just one room of your home. When they are reliably keeping that clean, you can slowly expand the area where your dog is allowed. Each part of your home is a separate place to your dog. Not only will this speed up the house training process, but it will also reduce the number of accidents and the number of times you have to deep clean your carpets. Who can argue with that? What and How You Feed Your Pup is Incredibly Important Not all dog food is created equal, and what you feed your puppy is one of the most important decisions you will make regarding the care of your pup. This decision has a huge impact on house training, and the overall health of your dog. For more information about how food and water choices affect house training, check out this detailed article: This article will help you navigate around the world of dog food and how it relates to house training. They will be happier, easier to train, and more relaxed because they will know what to expect from you. A routine should include set times for eating, training, exercise, and toileting. As for house training, a schedule will make things easier for your puppy and for you. Conversely if you feed your puppy randomly throughout the day, they will defecate just as randomly. When your puppy is young, food travels quickly through their digestive system. As they grow, the digestive process takes longer and longer. If you stick to a schedule with your puppy, you can count on them using the toilet on a pretty regular basis. They will usually have to poop three to six times a day, but their urination habits might be harder to figure out. Plan on taking your puppy out to their designated bathroom spot on a consistent schedule based on their needs. Every puppy will be different. This will give you ample opportunity to praise your puppy for doing the right thing, which is a huge benefit to teaching the right habits. Do these strict routines seem like too much to handle? We all have a life to live outside of house training — your best is good enough. Keeping and following a written schedule may seem excessive, but for very little extra effort, the results are phenomenal. Try to feed them every four hours at the same time every day. Schedule the first meal of the day based on whatever time you wake up, and adjust the rest of the meals accordingly. Meals should be spaced eight to twelve hours apart. A note on drinking water: Your puppy should always have fresh drinking water available. Because drinking too much or too little water is a sign of health problems, you should monitor how much your pup drinks in a day. Your pup will usually have to go outside after any physical activity. If you schedule these bouts of playtime, exercise, or training, you will encourage predictable potty times as well. Schedule these activities to fit your schedule, just try to do them at the same time every day while your pup is learning. As your day progresses, jot down whenever your puppy uses the toilet, and what activity they were doing beforehand. Make note of when and where they have accidents in the house, and what activities they were doing before the accident. Lastly make note of all the times that you brought your dog outside, but they refused to go. As you get to know your pup, you will start to see pottying patterns that will help you and your puppy avoid mistakes in the future. This will look different for every puppy, but in general, you can start to stretch out the time between bathroom breaks about five minutes every three or four days. By the time your pup is five or six months old, they should be using the toilet every four hours during the day. Choosing and Using the Designated Bathroom Spot To make house training easier for both you and your puppy, you should choose a designated toilet area in your yard. A single bathroom area is much easier to clean than your whole yard too! Choose a spot that you can keep clean. An area with tall weeds might seem like a good idea at first, but if you neglect the spot for too long, your dog will refuse to go there. Taking Your Puppy to The Bathroom Spot In a perfect world, you would take your puppy to their designated spot, where they would empty themselves quickly and completely on command, and be ready to move on. This can be a reality most of the time , provided you follow these tips when using the bathroom spot. Use a cue word. When your pup is young, you should use the cue word whenever they use the toilet in the proper spot. When they are older and understand the word or phrase, you can say it when you want them to do their business, which will lead to faster results. Keep your puppy on a leash when toileting. Be boring, and just hold the leash until they start to go. If you get too excited when using your cue word, your puppy might not finish, and will end up emptying inside your home. Say the cue word once, and stand still while they finish up. A what? You may want to keep food rewards to a minimum when your pup is young. Remember, what goes in, must come out. I recommend staying out for up to five minutes. If your pup responds to your cue word, you can say it every thirty seconds or so. Then, bring them back to the designated spot and try again. Do not let them wander unattended — they may decide to sneak off and use your carpet. After ten minutes, head back out to your spot for another go.
This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. Lifespan Sociability Difficult to find, the silver German Shepherd puppy can cost more than a standard color. Their rarity means that it is unusual to find this coloring in shelters. As they are still used as guard dogs, you must meet a rescue dog before you consider adopting them. Check with the Kennel Club for recognized breeders and be prepared to ring around to find silver or grey German Shepherds because they are rarer. Meet the puppy and at least its mother before buying and taking your new dog home and ask for evidence of health screening to ensure that it has less chance of hereditary conditions that the breed is prone to. The dog was first bred in by Max von Stephanitz. He wanted to create the ultimate herding dog. Von Stephanitz believed that the dog should be bred primarily for herding but their purpose soon evolved. Many critics say that the modern breed is too far from his ideas to be considered a true German Shepherd. The word dog is included in the breed registry to differentiate from German Shepherd people. In Germany, it has the breed name Deutscher Shaferhund and in parts of Europe it is also sometimes known as the Alsatian, a name which was given to it after World War II when its popularity waned and breeders wanted to reinvigorate its popularity. Following the formation of The Seeing Eye in , the breed was trained and used for the purpose. It was later decided that the German Shepherd was better suited to police work while the friendly demeanor of the Lab and the Retriever meant they were better as blind dogs. It tests the ability of the dog but was also designed to identify those that were untrainable. The sport is more inclusive now and allows dogs of other breeds to compete. They found many uses during the conflicts, from running messages to identifying danger and alerting their handlers to the presence of those dangers. They are still used in conflicts around the world, today. A post shared by Fenris Fangs fenrisfangs 6. Rin Tin Tin the Movie Star The recognizable image of the breed and its ability to follow commands even under great pressure has seen the breed used in a wide variety of occupations and settings, including on set as movie stars. Most people have also seen the black German Shepherd and some may have even seen the white. There are 11 recognized colors including the tan and black, white, and black variations. Silver is one of the other colorations that is considered acceptable. Although liver and blue are recognized colors, these are considered to be faults. They Rank as the Third Most Intelligent Breed in the World Bested only by the hyper-intelligent Border Collie and the equally smart Poodle, the German Shepherd is ranked as the third most intelligent breed in the world. They are well known for their loyalty, watchfulness, and their energy levels, but they are also renowned for being highly intelligent animals. This has pushed their popularity as a working breed. Final Thoughts The German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the world, and especially in the US where they are ranked as the 2nd most popular breed. This is, in part, because they are not only popular as pets but also as working and service dogs. They have a very loyal following of owners and fans that swear by the breed, as well as many people that dream of one day owning the breed. Related Reads:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The black German shepherd is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the standard German shepherd dog breed. Although multiple color variations of GSD exist, black German shepherd puppies are one of the most popular thanks to their sleek, handsome coats. The pitch-black color that gives these dogs their magnificent appearance is the result of a naturally occurring recessive gene. This means black German shepherds have naturally existed for quite some time, but they are much rarer than their black and tan counterparts. When properly socialized from a young age, black German shepherds make wonderful companions and excellent guard dogs. These large doggos are best suited for experienced owners with large homes and fenced-in yards. If you are looking for a handsome companion that can double as a guard dog, the black German shepherd is a fantastic choice! Keep on reading to find out more about this rare variety and decide if it is the right canine for you. Black German shepherds are a color variation of the standard German shepherd dog. While they may look completely different, these dogs are the same breed, and the black variety is recognized in the official GSD standard. While purebred black German shepherd puppies can compete in dog shows, they are often overlooked in favor of the classic black and tan look. These dogs were later used by the military as messengers, sentries, guards, supply carriers, and rescuers. Black shepherds tend to be slightly larger than the average GSD, and most have a straighter back. When it comes to features, you can expect your black German shepherd puppy to have a clear-cut head, pointed ears, a long snout, almond-shaped brown eyes, and a black nose. Males are usually around 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Female dogs are typically smaller and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 75 pounds. The average GSD can be black and tan, black, sable, grey, red and black, or even black and silver. In German shepherds, black coats are caused by a recessive gene. This means a puppy needs to inherit two copies of a recessive gene from both mom and dad in order to have a black coat. For example, if you mate two sable German shepherds that carry this recessive gene, a quarter of their puppies will have a black coat. However, if you breed a black German shepherd with a sable dog that carries the gene, roughly half of their litter will be black in color. Breeding two black German shepherds is the only guaranteed way to produce a litter of completely black puppies. Bear in mind that all German shepherd puppies change color as they grow. Coat Texture These pitch-black canines have a medium-to-long double coat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and will shed all year long and go through two blowouts — once in the spring and again in the fall. If you decide to welcome a black GSD into your home, be prepared to welcome lots of loose doggy hair as well! Since these doggos shed a lot, invest in a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner and be prepared to vacuum every day to keep your home clean and tidy. Black German Shepherd Temperament And Character Black German shepherds are best known for their loyal, courageous, obedient, and watchful temperament. Thanks to their protective nature and working history, they make amazing guard dogs that will fiercely protect your family and your home. A properly trained and socialized black GSD puppy will get along well with people outside the family but remain a loyal guardian and protector. They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization and consistent training are a must! Although they are working dogs at heart, black GSD make wonderful companions and even get along with children and other pets when properly socialized. An anxious or stressed black shepherd will turn to destructive behavior to relieve their frustrations. As a result, your black German shepherd pup may decide to chew woodwork , destroy your home, or bark loudly. While they are not the best choice for first-time owners, black shepherds make fantastic family pets and companions when properly trained and socialized. Because they tend to get so attached to their people, these pups are better off in homes where someone is usually around to keep them company. Activity Level Highly energetic and agile, these handsome solid black pups need regular exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Apart from at least two daily walks, your black German shepherd pup will also enjoy running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that allows them to spend time with you. Caring For Black German Shepherd Puppy While they are not harder to care for than standard German shepherds, your black GSD still needs a lot of love, care, and affection to stay happy and thrive. It is crucial to design a consistent care routine for your pooch and keep track of regular veterinary check ups to detect any health problems early on. When creating a care routine for your GSD puppy, pay special attention to the following factors: Exercise The black German shepherd is a highly energetic dog that needs at least one hour of intense exercise every day. Enrolling your puppy in agility classes is a great way to keep them exercised and can be a fun and entertaining experience for them. Games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and hide and seek are also great options and will keep your pooch exercised and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation Black German shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that can easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive when not mentally stimulated. A bored or anxious black shepherd can cause serious damage to your home and belongings. Companionship Loyal and devoted to a fault, black GSD puppies make superb family dogs and companions. They form strong bonds with their people and are happiest when they can spend time and interact with their families. While they are large and intimidating at first, these pups are loving companions that crave affection and attention. Black German shepherd puppies need company and are best suited for homes where someone is around all day. Grooming The black German shepherd is a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. If your pup has a medium-length coat, brush them two to three times a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat in pristine condition. Use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and minimize the shedding during spring and fall. To further reduce shedding, bathe your GSD with an anti-shed dog shampoo every two months or as necessary. You should also brush their teeth at least three times a week and trim their nails every other month. Diet An ideal diet for black German shepherds should be formulated for a large-sized dog with high energy. When choosing the best food for your pooch, make sure it contains higher levels of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and easily digestible complex carbohydrates. Keep in mind that black German shepherd puppies grow extremely quickly between the ages of four and seven months, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Feed your pup high-quality, low-calorie food to prevent them from growing too rapidly. Known Health Problems As a breed, German shepherds are considered generally healthy. Black GSD and all other German shepherds are prone to the same health problems, including: Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition that causes malformation of a hip joint. Affected dogs may or may not show clinical signs of this condition, but in most cases, dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both hind legs. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition commonly seen in large breeds. This condition is caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up the elbow, resulting in joint looseness. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dog breeds, particularly if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink a lot of water after eating, or exercise just after a meal. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This condition affects the part of the cord that gives information to the brain regarding the rear legs. Lifespan The black German shepherd has an average lifespan of around 9 to 13 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, these pups can reach their senior years in good health. Training A Black German Shepherd Puppy Black German shepherd puppies are highly intelligent and obedient, which makes them very easy to train. These pups are fairly easy to housetrain, and they also learn obedience commands after just a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, black German shepherds thrive on reward-based training and a lot of praise. Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective for training puppies and adult dogs and are much more reliable than dominance training. Besides training, you should start socializing your black GSD puppy as soon as you bring them home. Since these pups are naturally aloof with strangers, early socialization is essential and will help your dog to become friendlier to other people. Try to expose your puppy to as many people, places, situations, animals, children, and sounds from a young age to help them grow into an outgoing dog. Properly trained and socialized black German shepherd pups make wonderful companions to people of all ages and families with children. Due to their large size and highly energetic nature, these dogs are best suited for large homes with spacious, fenced yards. While they can live outdoors, black shepherds should primarily be kept indoors so they can regularly interact with their people and stay close to them. In addition, because of their high social needs and potential to develop separation anxiety, they thrive in families where someone is at home often and able to keep them company. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by. Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run. Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds. Black German shepherds make wonderful family pets and companions. Naturally loyal and devoted to their owners, they like to be close to their people and spend lots of time by their side. Plus, due to their protective nature, black German shepherds make excellent watchdogs and will always feel the urge to watch over you and your family. The black German shepherd is a rare and absolutely stunning color variation of a standard German shepherd dog. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs make fantastic family companions and can also serve as vigilant guard dogs. If you want to bring a black shepherd pup home, be prepared to: Exercise your pooch for at least one hour every day Start training and socialization from a young age Groom your dog at least three times a week Do you own a black German shepherd dog? What do you like the most about your pooch? Share your experience owning this gorgeous dog with us and our readers in the comment section below! Related Article:.
It was founded in when both of its founders were still in college. The duo takes breeding very seriously, which is why they only have a few litters every year. Their priorities are to ensure the health of all dames and sires , and they try hard not to overbreed them. They specialize in producing both family dogs as well as working dogs and show dogs. They carefully plan all of their litters, and they take into consideration all aspects that the ideal Boxer has to have, including temperament, conformation, and health. All of their parent dogs are AKC registered, with amazing temperaments and superb health. In fact, they have listed all the health results publicly on their website, so you can know exactly what qualities they have. They have a contact form that all aspiring Boxer owners can fill out, and a representative from the kennel will get in touch with them. Lastly, Soleil Boxers have an open-door policy. They produce show-quality Boxer puppies that are entirely up to AKC standards. When breeding, they focus on health, temperament, and longevity. They are located on a 5-acre plot of land, giving their Boxers enough space to run around. All of their puppies are crate-trained and obedience-trained. They do all they can to ensure you get the best quality dog possible. This dog breeder also conducts all the necessary health testing on their dogs, ensuring you get a healthy Boxer pup, free of genetic disorders. The application process is straightforward, which makes everything a lot easier and more approachable. They have an application form on their website that you can fill out. Once you do, someone will contact you and put you on a waiting list. Otherwise, the dog will be put up for further sale. The only thing that could make the adoption process challenging is if you want your Boxer puppy to be of a specific color — for example, brindle. Here are some of the best Boxer breeders in Southern California: Telstar Boxers This might easily be one of the most reputable Boxer breeders in California. This includes 2 Dams of Merit and even 8 Sires of Merit! Telstar Boxers are located in San Diego, and they were founded by Jennifer and Gene, who have more than 35 years of breeding experience. In fact, this is one of the oldest Boxer kennels we could find! They have a unique Boxer program that focuses on producing Boxer puppies that will become amazing show dogs. They are structurally sound, healthy, and with an ideal temperament. This is where you can also find information on their pricing and policies. Email: [email protected] Anden Boxers This is a small but professional Boxer breeder in California that specializes in breeding family companions and working dogs. They have all the information about their dogs listed publicly, including the health testing records and lineage. Their puppies are bred and raised in the center of the family home, so they are provided with a loving and caring environment that can help them develop the best temperaments possible. They also expose all of their puppies to all sorts of sounds and sights, so they can easily adjust to new environments. All of their dogs are fed with a natural, raw dog food diet, as they believe this will keep these dogs close to their ancestors and make them grow strong. Encore Boxers Photo from: theboxerworld Encore Boxers is a kennel that has been operating since the s. They have been raising select Boxer puppies according to a breeding program that they developed for years. Because of this, their dogs have wonderful temperaments and are perfectly socialized. This helps reduce the stress and anxiety that comes with finding a great forever home. The kennel is owned by Cheryl Cates, who ensures all of their dams and sires receive excellent veterinary care. All of their puppies are dewormed and have received the necessary vaccinations and genetic health testing. In other words, they have great bloodlines that are destined for success if you decide to participate in dog shows. Their dogs come with AKC registration papers, a health guarantee, and even their favorite chew toy! The breeder offers lifetime support for all of their dogs, and they will be there for you if you need any help with raising your dog. They breed top-quality Boxer puppies that have excellent health and temperament as well as show conformation. Their goal is to produce ideal Boxers that can excel as both show dogs and companion dogs. At the same time, this is one of the many active Boxer breeders in California. They are well-known in the show dog community and have won many awards not just in the US but also in Canada! All of their puppies are AKC registered and clear of any health and genetic conditions before they are allowed to participate in their breeding program. Their puppies have been raised with love and care to ensure they are well-socialized and properly taken care of. All of the available puppies can be found on their website. Each of their puppies comes with a health guarantee, as well as lifetime support. They are home to more than 35 AKC Boxer champions! Only if all the test results are fine can these dogs enter their breeding program. Their puppies begin the socialization process when they are between 3 and 14 days old. During this time, the breeder conducts neurological stimulation exercises that help boost their confidence. All of their puppies come with their first vaccination shots, veterinary checks, a microchip, chip registration, and AKC registration papers. Shipping options are a possibility, but this has to be discussed with the breeder. Expect to wait at least 6 months before you get your new puppy. There are a few more places you might want to check out. Chances are you will find your new buddy there. On its marketplace, you can find puppies for sale listed by AKC-approved breeders. Some of them might be in the California area. Granted, this is the most ethical way to get a pet. So, is this a good way to become a Boxer owner? Not just that, but most breeders will ensure these canines have undergone some basic dog training, so they can easily adjust to new homes without displaying any bad behavior. Some people might think that the best Boxer breeders in California sell their dogs at too high a price. They might even try to find a more affordable place to purchase their dog from. Backyard breeders are some of the people you might run into. These individuals sell their dogs at a much lower price than reputable breeders. However, this is because, most of the time, they are inexperienced in raising puppies. These are simply dog owners who have ended up with an unplanned litter of puppies that they now want to sell. This is why they are not the best option. Other places to find Boxer puppies for sale are pet stores and puppy mills — however, we would strongly advise against this. Because of this, most puppies that come from pet stores and puppy mills have behavioral issues. Many will also have underlying health conditions. As you can see, there are many advantages to purchasing a Boxer from a reputable breeder. Either way, all dogs are good dogs, and Boxers make amazing family companions, as long as you know how to properly train and socialize them. For the complete list please see our Boxer Breeders page. These prices are estimates only; each seller can charge whatever they like. The main factor that may affect the price of a boxer puppy is your location within the state which could either increase or decrease the cost. Other factors include breed popularity most popular breeds are generally listed at an average price , whether or not the dog has been AKC registered such registrations often come with a fee and if shipping is included in the price. There are several questions that should always be asked when deciding on whether or not someone is reliable enough to purchase from. Look out for these warning signs: The smell of ammonia or other foul odors this means the boxers were not kept clean Dirty cages, feeds or toys The presence of rats, mice or other pests. If at any point during your visit something seems off, trust your instincts and do not buy from the breeder. In some cases, it might even be helpful to contact your local SPCA or humane society as they may have handled situations involving this particular breeder. Meeting past customers will help you get a feel for whether or not you can trust the breeder and if they produce healthy, happy dogs. If their reviews are negative, be wary of buying from this person. Your breeder should have a good relationship with a veterinarian who is familiar with their practices and the conditions the boxers are kept in. If this is the case, how can you expect them to take care of your pup? Ask to See The Health Certificates for Your Boxer Puppy If any records exist, ask to see proof of all vaccinations, deworming and other procedures listed above; if none do, be wary. For this reason, you need to ask questions and obtain proof of any conditions your puppy may have. If the breeder does not provide this information easily, move on. This will prove that your Boxer Puppy is purebred and that the breeder is authorized to breed boxers. If these documents cannot be provided, take it as a warning sign. There are several simple things you can do in order to get yourself and your house ready. A playpen or kennel is perfect. In addition, you should also have all of the following essentials on hand: Water and food bowls. Keep reading to discover a reputable breeder in your area and see where boxer puppies are for sale in California! This small family-owned kennel focuses on improving and maintaining the Boxer breed via regular genetic testing, careful breeding practices, and a rigorous puppy placement process. Website: TelstarBoxers Telstar Boxers is a family-operated Boxer breeder in Temecula with a long history of producing healthy, well-trained pups. Their intense adoption policies ensure that only the most capable and caring pet parents end up with Telstar Boxer puppies. Notably, they also offer white Boxer pups at lower prices than their dark-furred puppies, making them one of the most affordable options for Californian pet parents. But in addition to the convenient location, Soleil Boxers is preferable due to their professional practices. Should you ever need to surrender your Boxer, Soleil Boxers will gladly accept the pup back into their care to make sure that it continues to receive the best care. This area is home to dozens of farms and ranches, making it an excellent place for boisterous Boxer puppies to grow up. Pet parents who want to breed Boxer dogs can also purchase studs from Encore Boxers. Things to Consider When Choosing Boxer Breeders Before you place a deposit on a Boxer puppy, be sure to take a little time to research your chosen breeder. Unfortunately, not all dog breeders are reputable, and purchasing a Boxer from an untrustworthy breeder can be a dangerous endeavor. For example, purebred Boxer dogs can develop hyperthyroidism , aortic stenosis, and hip dysplasia. However, many of the most severe health problems are entirely preventable with regular genetic testing. The best Boxer breeders in California test the DNA of their breeding pairs before allowing them to produce offspring, preventing them from puppies with life-shortening degenerative diseases. When adopting a Boxer puppy, ensure that your chosen breeder invests in genetic testing. Public Reputation Do you know what people are saying about your preferred Boxer breeder? Instead, they ensure that each puppy finds their ideal pet parent match. This process is typically done via an in-depth vetting process that may consist of a lengthy application or an at-home visit. In Summary—the Best Boxer Breeders in California The Boxer breed often gets a bad rap, but purebred Boxer pups from reputable breeders are often some of the gentlest and well-behaved dogs on the face of the earth. And those living in The Golden State have the good luck of having several trustworthy Boxer breeders from which to choose! Taking these additional steps before buying a Boxer dog can ensure that your new four-legged family member lives a long and happy life. Related Posts.
Share Tweet We all know that canines are social animals that thrill for the attention and company of their owners. Dealing with French bulldog separation anxiety might sound challenging. What is a French bulldog separation anxiety? Separation anxiety is a condition that often occurs in this breed. A dog may also start to shiver, urinate or defecate due to the fear of being alone. A dog may also show destructive behavior such as chewing home items, chewing and licking paws. The last, severe level requires to be treated with drugs. For example, pooches with severe anxiety tend to jump through the closed window and hurt themselves to find the owners. How to Treat Separation anxiety in Frenchies? One of the ways to escape or treat mild French bulldog separation anxiety is to gradually teach a pet to spend time alone. Therefore, the best way is to start to leave your pup alone from an early age by teaching it to spend time playing with toys. Baby gates and x-pens may serve as great tools to limit the space where they can play. Severe cases of French bulldog separation anxiety require a special supervising of a dog behavior specialist. Since in this stage of illness a dog is prone to hurt himself, my advice is to ask the pro for help. In most cases, you should put your little gremlin under the prescribed medication and perform specially-tailored lessons. What helps dogs with separation anxiety? The following list of toys can help your Frenchie to ease the symptoms of this health issue. While some pooches show behavioral improvement by wearing a Separation anxiety jacket, others prefer playing with interactive dog toys. In the following video, you can see how does the dog anxiety jacket work. It contains a degree system which means that it will never stop rolling. When a ball collides with a wall, armchair, or sofa, it automatically changes the direction. Plush Pig Toy There is a study that shows that anxious dogs show behavioral improvement when they spend time with their favorite plush toys. In other words, plush toys are a sort of their best buddies that they can carry around. Food presents their main motivation not only for training but also when they need to spend time alone. The following interactive food egg is great to put dry kibble food inside, and will certainly make your little gremlin entertained for hours. As the egg rolls, it releases tasty treats for your pup. You can also choose the level of difficulty so your dog will get thrilled over and over again. This snuffle mat can be filled with tons of snacks and comes in many colors. If you feed your little gremlin with dry kibble food, you can even hide his whole meal inside of it and prolonge his meal at the same time. Post navigation. Friday 25th of August Great Article eric Saturday 15th of April my recent rescue of a 3 year old supposed puppymill frenchie momma. I will probably have more questions later. It's not easy to take on the responsibility of a dog with behavioral quirks, but with some effort, you can help her become a happy and well-adjusted pet. Here are a few tips to get you started: Socialize her as much as possible: She might not have been socialized as much as she could've — ideally this is done when they're puppies, but you can still get behavior improvements in adult Frenchies through socializing. My Frenchie used to be scared of new people and always would bark at them.Supervise playtime: It's important to keep a close eye on interactions between the Frenchie and your pug, especially when toys are involved. If the Frenchie shows signs of aggression, such as growling or snarling, immediately remove the toy and redirect her attention to a different activity. Introduce new experiences gradually: If the Frenchie is not used to being around children, it's important to introduce her to your grandchild in a slow and controlled manner. Start by having the child sit quietly while you hold the Frenchie on a leash. If the Frenchie shows interest but no signs of aggression, you can gradually increase the amount of time they spend together. Seek professional help if needed: If the Frenchie's behavioral issues persist despite your efforts, it may be helpful to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide tailored advice and training techniques to help the Frenchie overcome her fears and insecurities. Remember, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Frenchie momma become a happy and well-adjusted member of your family. Best of luck! My biggest problem is Squirrels. We live on 2 acres and yes lots of squirrels. I am trying to figure out how to keep him from just taking off full speed after them. I even walk him on a leash no pull harness it terrifies me when takes off while being on a leash, he is very strong. I started making him stop walking before he takes off, before we start walking again. Our yard is fenced however he started running to fence or tree trying to climb it. I want him to have free time to run and play. It seems like you're on the right track with the no-pull harness, but they definitely aren't an easy fix to a problem like this. My Frenchie is the same way, she likes to chase squirrels, bunnies, and other animals in our backyard. She's actually got a few bunnies — I don't think the squirrel toy we have helps lol. Here are a few suggestions for your situation: Use a deterrent: Consider using a deterrent such as a motion-activated sprinkler or ultrasonic device to discourage squirrels from entering your yard in the first place. Impulse control training: Practice impulse control training by making your dog stop and refocus his attention before taking off after squirrels. Positive reinforcement training: Train your dog with positive reinforcement, teaching him a "leave it" command to ignore squirrels and focus on you instead. Avoid punishment: Avoid punishing your dog for chasing squirrels as this can lead to fear or anxiety around them. Instead, focus on redirecting his attention to more appropriate behaviors. Physical and mental stimulation: Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation through regular walks, interactive toys, and training sessions to help reduce your dog's desire to chase squirrels. Long leash: Consider using a long leash to give your dog more freedom to move around the yard while still having control over him. Safe and secure outdoor space: Create a safe and secure outdoor space for your dog, such as a fenced area or an enclosed playpen, where he can run and play without chasing squirrels. Professional guidance: Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for additional guidance and support. It's important to remember that training takes time and patience, so don't get discouraged if progress is slow. With consistent training and reinforcement, your dog can learn to control his impulse to chase squirrels and enjoy his free time in the yard without the need for a leash. Thanks for your comment. We'll try to help you to the best of our abilities. We have tried turning our backs to her but that was not a success. Do you have any helpful tips? We need help! Here are some tips to help with your Frenchie's biting and jumping: Teach "off" or "down" command: When your Frenchie starts to jump or bite, firmly and calmly say "off" or "down" and redirect her attention to a toy or treat. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Frenchie with a treat or praise when she listens and stops biting or jumping. Consistency is key in reinforcing good behavior. Provide plenty of exercise: Make sure your Frenchie gets enough exercise and playtime to help reduce her energy and prevent her from getting too excited and jumping or biting. Practice good playtime: Encourage your Frenchie to play with toys and not with people's feet or ankles. Provide plenty of chew toys and interactive toys to keep her engaged and occupied. Consider professional training: If these tips don't seem to work, you may want to consider professional training for your Frenchie to help modify her behavior and learn more positive ways to interact with people. I hope these tips help, and good luck with your Frenchie! FrenchieWiki Community. Believe me when I tell you that Frenchies appear to be a breed that suffer with the symptoms far more than other dog breeds. Put simply; French Bulldogs do not do well alone. In this guide to French Bulldog separation anxiety I am going to give you a blueprint to follow to make things better for you and your puppy. Take a look at this video of the Furbo we made , and reasons why you should get this to help with Frenchie separation anxiety. Although it can be very distressing behavior to deal with, there are a few steps you can take to ease your Frenchie out of this destructive pattern and to help them deal with their separation anxiety and symptoms. French Bulldogs are known to be an especially clingy breed and are more susceptible to separation anxiety as a result. They have been bred to be human companions so this is not the type of dog that can be left alone at home for long periods of time. Frenchies thrive from having plenty of quality time with you and will be absolutely miserable if you work long hours and leave them alone for the majority of the day. Do French Bulldogs do well alone? If you find that your Frenchie has a meltdown every time you leave the house, there are a number of methods you can utilize to coax them away from this frame of mind. Patience and perseverance during this time is critical. You might even find that your puppy or adult dog starts to eat their own poop. Symptom 2: Barking and howling Frenchies are not loud dogs to begin with, so if they start barking and howling every time you leave the house, this is another strong indicator that they are struggling with separation anxiety. You might have seen photos of a younger Frenchie puppy on our blog. We sometimes look after her to help her owners out, and unlike Claude who can deal with being left home alone for a couple of hours, she starts to bark like crazy as soon as we leave the house for a few moments. Symptom 3: Pacing, heavy panting and drooling You may notice this type of frantic body language whenever you start getting ready to leave. This may also be accompanied by shivering and shaking. French Bulldog puppy separation anxiety starts as soon as they learn the signals for you leaving the house. I will come on to how to reduce these triggers further down the page. Symptom 4: Chewing, digging, and generally destructive behavior This is usually their attempt to try and get out of the house. Typically, you will find that their destruction will be aimed at sofas, blinds, drapes, doorways, and walls — anything that they may perceive as a way out. If you have this problem with your Frenchie, read this guide on how to stop them from chewing your house up. Find out how we dog-proofed our own garden area to stop Claude from digging up our lawn. Symptom 5: Escape attempts When distressed, your Frenchie may go to extreme attempts to escape the house in order to find you. This can even result in them hurting themselves. They would get back to see their young puppy bashing his head and teeth against the crate bars, injuring himself in the process. How to stop French Bulldog separation anxiety If you have a possessive and clingy French Bulldog on your hands, there are a number of techniques you can try to calm your Frenchie down. The key in all of this is endurance. Regardless of your approach, you will not see results straight away, but the longer you persist, the more you should see a difference. All of these methods will help you to deal with a dog who cannot be left alone for either long or short periods of time. Although it may not always be realistic, practicing a calm routine in the morning before you leave, and a calm routine when you get back should help your Frenchie with their anxiety. How to train your French Bulldog to be left alone: try to be calm when you leave your Frenchie alone at home for better results. It might make your puppy a lot happier! Avoid giving your Frenchie too much attention or making too much of a fuss. This is especially important when you get home. If you find your Frenchie excitedly greeting you back, you can certainly return their greeting with a quick pet, but it would be best to avoid too much eye contact or attention until they have calmed down. With a few simple changes to your own behavior, you should be able to leave your French Bulldog alone — but it will take time to get this discipline down to a tee. This includes things such as: Putting on a jacket and shoes. Picking up your house keys, purse, or wallet. Making a big deal out of saying goodbye to them. What you might try to do instead is get your stuff ready before you start to leave. I know one owner who will put their jacket on and pick up their keys before the eat dinner so they can be more subtle about the act of leaving the house. It might be that you have a set routine in the morning. If you do, try shaking things up a little bit. You might try picking up your keys and putting on your coat as though you were about to leave, but then doing something completely different, like making a meal or watching TV. If your Frenchie starts to become anxious as you pick up your keys and put on your jacket, perhaps you can start to use these before you take them out for a walk or playing a favorite game. Give them a comfortable and safe place I mentioned the crate method earlier. This can work with some puppies, as you might have one who is perfectly happy to sit in his crate when left at home alone with no negative consequences. Other dogs might hate being crated. The key here is to see if you can find a room or area where your Frenchie feels more at ease when you leave the house. It could even mean placing them in a specific room with the door closed, with the TV or radio on and plenty of toys to play with more on this in a moment. Try short absences at first Another method to help you if you absolutely must leave your French Bulldog at home alone all day is to try short absences first. Come back through the house door behaving completely normally before your Frenchie can start to get up to mischief without making a fuss. By trying this exercise you can start to train your Frenchie to be left alone. Important: I do not recommend getting a Frenchie if you are going to be leaving them at home alone all day or for long hours at a time. However, I appreciate there may be times when this is unavoidable. Positive reinforcement Part of the reason why Frenchies become so distressed when you leave the house is because they know that they are going to be separated from you and your affection. Some people say that your dog might even think you are never coming back! To combat the idea that your leaving the house is a negative thing, you can reserve a certain treat or a favorite toy for when you leave. It will take them a good twenty minutes to finish with this toy, and by the time they are done, it should hopefully provide enough of a distraction to keep their mind off your absence. Keep your puppy distracted and entertained As an extension of an earlier suggestion, another thing you can try is to leave your Frenchie in a room full of toys and distractions to keep them occupied throughout the day. Make sure the room is well lit and fill it with engaging toys that you know your Frenchie will love. Can French Bulldogs be left alone all day? If you can, try to reserve these toys for times when you are out of the house. This way they will have more things to positively associate with you leaving. Another tip that may help, especially if you find that your Frenchie is comforted by sound, is to leave the TV or radio on during the day. Sometimes the silence can be enough to agitate your Frenchie, so you may find this on its own can make a massive difference. By doing so, you might find that they end up sleeping for large periods when left alone. By keeping your puppy or adult dog entertained and exercised when you are at home, it will make leaving them alone a lot easier, as hopefully they will use this time to get some well-deserved rest and recuperation until you return. Handy Hint: Ever wondered how long Frenchies sleep for? Read this article about French Bulldog sleeping patterns including a recommend sleeping schedule. Doggy daycare and walking services Last summer my wife and I had a period of time where we both had to be at work from 9 until 5 each day — usually my wife is at home with Claude. To cope with this better we decided to use a dog sitting and walking service. However, it can cost quite a lot if you have to place them into full-time day care. What we did most of the time was give our trusted dog walker the keys to our house. She would come once in the morning and once in the afternoon to take Claude out for an hour to break up his day and how long he was without human companionship. You might also consider taking your Frenchie to a reliable doggy daycare service. Use a remote camera to see and talk to your puppy Another suggestion is to get one of those remote cameras that you can buy on Amazon. This can give you huge peace of mind. It has 2-way audio so you can hear them, and they can hear you plus can be hooked up to your Alexa device. The reviews on Amazon for this dog camera are excellent, and could be a great solution if you are going to be leaving your French Bulldog at home alone for longer periods of time. Professional help or medication If you find that nothing seems to be working, or if the behavior is already quite bad, you may want to enlist the help of a professional trainer and your veterinarian. As separation anxiety can be the result of medical issues, it would be worth having your Frenchie checked over to rule this out as a possibility. Your veterinarian may also choose to prescribe medication for your Frenchie if the anxiety is particularly bad. Medication should only be viewed as a short-term fix for anxiety problems. Dog tranquilizers prescribed by your vet should only be viewed as a short-term and drastic solution if you really need to alter the behavior of your Frenchie. Related questions I hope this has given you some guidance on how you can better deal with the problem of separation anxiety. Much of this behavior will exhibit itself in puppies and dogs who are left home alone, so here are some more pointers to help you decide if a Frenchie is the right dog for you. What age can you leave your French Bulldog alone? By this point he was starting to get more adult and was passing the destructive puppy-like behavior that would be most commonly associated with being left alone. It might be different with your own puppy, but the bottom line is, you should not leave a French Bulldog puppy alone at the age of 6 months. At this age they cannot hold their bladder for more than 6 hours. There have been some very rare occasions where we have had to leave the home for 7 hours, leaving Claude by himself home alone it was a family emergency. He would ignore us and give us the cold shoulder — almost like he was punishing us for leaving him alone all day. The bottom line is this; French Bulldogs are a very social breed and have been bred to be companion dogs. I would say no, French Bulldogs do not do well alone. What many people will do is have two Frenchies so they can keep each other company. I go into more detail on this in my article about French Bulldogs being better in pairs. A pair of Frenchies will hep to stimulate each other and will reduce their stress when you leave them alone. The benefits of having two Frenchies include: As social animals they can keep each other company. Pairs can act as role models for each other, particularly a puppy with an older dog. Two Frenchies can help to exercise and play with each other when you leave the home. You can leave them home alone longer if they are two of them. Which dogs have separation anxiety? Other dogs that suffer with this problem are said to be the following breeds source: Furbo. But, for some dogs, this turns into a great level of distress. What is Separation Anxiety in French Bulldogs? Separation anxiety is when your dog experiences distress when you are away. Dogs typically experience this immediately or soon after you leave them. While some Frenchies may suffer from separation anxiety, others may not. Becoming aware of this is the first step to helping a dog with separation anxiety. Ways to Help Your Anxious Frenchie There are several tricks to help a dog with separation anxiety feel better when you leave, if it is mild to moderate. To prevent this, try to be unpredictable. You can do this by getting your keys out at times when you have no intention of leaving soon or letting your dog have mealtime in their crate when you are at home. You can also change the order of the steps you take before leaving. Another leaving signal most pet owners display to their dogs is actually telling them. Proper Crate Training Properly crate training your dog can make an enormous difference when leaving your French Bulldog. You can read all the tips and tricks for this here. Start Small Avoid overwhelming your French Bulldog with too much time away from you from the start. Again, look into crate training your dog from a puppy or as soon as you get it. Upon getting your new Frenchie, leave it for a very short time, or have another person i. This can make a difference since your home is very new to them, and they will surely experience some uneasiness. Practice leaving them for a short time by not actually leaving and simply stepping into another one and eventually outdoors out of sight. Slowly increase the time that you leave them. Your Scent Leaving items with your scent on them can provide comfort to your dog when you are away, especially if they are in a crate. Exercise An excellent trick to help a dog with separation anxiety is to exercise them before you leave. Provide ample playtime or a walk before you plan to leave them. Treats and Toys Treats and toys help any situation! Provide treats before you go so that your dog has something to be excited about. Toys will also give your dog something to do while you are away. Bring it on. Benebones are tougher than real bones and last for weeks. Trust us, dogs can tell the difference. Healthy play is important for dogs' physical and mental development, emotions and behavior. By encouraging healthy play and satisfying instinctual needs, this treat dispensing puzzle toy helps solve chewing, separation anxiety, teething, boredom, weight management, crate training, digging and barking Fetch Toy: The KONG Classic's unpredictable bounce makes for exciting games of fetch and other interactive play with your pet. Dishwasher safe for easy clean up. Bonus: For an added challenge, freeze stuffed KONG for hours before giving to your dog We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Many dogs do suffer from more severe separation anxiety, especially if you get your Frenchie once they pass the puppy age. A Dog Behaviorist A dog behaviorist can provide further assistance; rather it is from extra training or advice on anxiety medication options. Doggy Daycare or Pet Sitter Another step you can take to help a dog with anxiety is to send your pup to doggy daycare or get a pet sitter to come to your home. Allowing your pup to become comfortable with someone else can prove very useful. Doggy daycare can get expensive, but many places offer discounts for packages. Some dogs are also anxious to go to a new place, but the good part is that they usually get used to it, and they also have time to exercise, allowing them to get their mind off of missing you so much. A pet sitter is also a great option. Time for exercise midday with a dog walker can also allow your pup to relax a bit until you are able to get back home. In Conclusion Just like for humans, anxiety in dogs can be debilitating and result in undesired behaviors. While it can be disheartening to witness a distressed Frenchie, implementing ways to help a dog with separation anxiety are sure to make a difference. Separation anxiety is when a dog experiences distress when their owner is away. French Bulldogs may suffer from separation anxiety, but it is not a guaranteed condition for all Frenchies. How can I tell if my Frenchie has separation anxiety? Look for signs such as using the bathroom in the house or crate when you leave, excessive barking or howling, destructive behaviors, escaping from confinement, and appearing uneasy before you leave. How can I help my Frenchie with separation anxiety? What types of toys are safe for a Frenchie with separation anxiety? Safe toys for a Frenchie with separation anxiety include durable, non-toxic options like the Benebone Durable Wishbone and Kong Classic Dog Toy filled with frozen peanut butter or banana pieces. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. May 14, No comments All dogs are pack animals. This means they love being with their family and often experience a sense of safety and comfort when the other members of their pack are around. The pack mentality is often believed to be the source of the incredible bond that can be formed between a dog and an individual or family. Unfortunately, this close bond can also be the source of separation anxiety when a dog spends a significant amount of time alone, or if they have a previous history of abandonment or temperament that makes them more susceptible to anxiety. The good news is that with a little information and some trial and error, you should be able to find a solution that will help your Frenchie with their separation anxiety. What is Separation Anxiety? Separation anxiety is often exhibited by dogs who spend a lot of time alone, or who have a history of abandonment or neglect. Some dogs also have a temperament that may result in separation anxiety, even if they are only left alone for a short amount of time. Separation anxiety is often noticed when a normally well-behaved dog starts acting out or exhibiting unusual behavior. Why do French Bulldogs get Separation Anxiety? French Bulldogs are especially susceptible to separation anxiety because of their fun temperament and desire for companionship. These traits make Frenchies wonderful pets, but they also mean most French Bulldogs are less independent by nature. The more dependent or social a dog is, the more likely they are to deal with separation anxiety when left alone. Signs of separation anxiety can include:. Escape attempts Pacing, heavy painting and drooling Please note that the above symptoms could also show when your pooch is suffering from other conditions. If you are not sure these are symptoms of separation anxiety, consult your vet as soon as possible. What to do with an anxious Frenchie In case your pooch suffers from a mild or moderate type of anxiety, consider trying the following techniques. All these techniques require some level of endurance. You will not see results right away, but you will with time if you persist. Practice a calm routine Practicing a calm routine when you are about to leave and when you come back can go along away into helping your pooch with their anxiety. For example, when leaving, avoid giving him too much attention. When you come back and find him happily greeting you , also avoid too much attention until he has calmed down. For example, each time when leaving your house, your pooch gets his favorite treats. With time, he will associate your leaving with getting some tasty treats. For example, if you put on shoes before you leave, anytime you put them, they will know you are about to leave them. Doing things differently can make a huge difference. For example, instead of putting on your shoes and leaving immediately, put them on and do something else -- Like walking in the house. That way, you will help them associate your act of wearing shoes with something positive. Give them a comfortable and safe place If you leave your pooch comfortable, he is less likely to feel anxious when you are away. If he loves to be crated, crate him before leaving. If he is always happy when placed in a specific room, put him there before you leave. The goal here is to find a room or area where you Frenchie is more relaxed when alone. To them is a negative thing and some think you might never come back. Leaving them with something fun or tasty when going away can help them associate leaving with something good. Some experts recommend leaving them a KONG ball filled with peanut butter as it provides enough of a distraction when you are going. Try short absence at first Before you decide to leave your Frenchie alone all day, try a few cycles of short absence. For example, leave the house for three or five minutes and come back. You can also lock yourself somewhere you Frenchie will not see or hear you for a few minutes. This way, you will monitor how he behaves, and you will be able to adjust accordingly. Engage your dog using a remote camera It is possible to monitor and engage your Frenchie remotely today, thanks to current technological advancements. With a good camera such as the Furbo Dog Camera , you can from time to time, see and talk to your puppy. Leave them fully distracted and entertained If you find your Frenchie loves interactive toys use them as a form of distraction when leaving. Make sure that these are toys your pooch only gets when you are about to leave. If he loves music, leave your TV or radio on. Here are some dog toys you can purchase. Burn off excess energy Burning off any excess energy might help as well. Taking your Frenchie for a walk before you leave can help him sleep and rest for a large period when you are out of sight. This will, in turn, make leaving him alone a lot easier. Use a dog sitting and walking services If you find you are spending most of the time outdoors, it makes sense to use a reliable dog sitting and walking service. This will reduce the period your Frenchie spends alone. Seek professional help If none of the above approaches seems to work or the behavior is out of hand, consider consulting a professional trainer or vet. Buy a separation anxiety jacket It is not a joke; a separation anxiety jacket does the unimaginable. It does make a pet feel like someone is there hugging him by making a gentle and constant pressure that helps calm anxiety. Try it and see how your Frenchie will react. Basically, this jacket helps dogs deal with thunderstorms, loud music, traveling, fireworks, and other stressful situations. Separation anxiety will not go away by just snapping your fingers. You need to take action to help your Frenchie with easing the symptoms and make his life more comfortable. If you consider the above approaches, you can be sure to help your Frenchie deal with separation anxiety. Written by jay kang. Home » Blog » Miss you already! They are excited for you to get home, as they just love you so much… sometimes to the extent that they never want you to leave again. What is separation anxiety? Separation anxiety is a behavior that occurs in both human and animal species. It means that someone is afraid of being separated from a particular person, which develops extreme anxiety. It first appears in childhood, and when left untreated, it sticks forever and manifests in all sorts of behavioral problems. As we said already , French Bulldogs are people-dogs, which means they love to be around their owners. Same with humans, some Frenchies are clingier than others. Frenchies with a higher level of separation anxiety might even think that they are left alone forever, and their owner is never going to get back. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email Dogs with a higher level of separation anxiety tend to misbehave while you are gone. Of course, boredom can also cause bad behavior, but you need to learn how to differentiate between casual boredom-mess and separation anxiety-related mess. How do you know if your Frenchie has separation anxiety? You will learn of this behavior from your neighbors for sure. However, not all dogs bark or howl once you leave. Others start to destroy your home, especially your blinds, drapes, doorway, and walls. They start chewing, scratching, and digging. The psychological reason behind this is that they try to be your babies again. When they were little, you spent every minute of yours with them, and they remember that. First of all, verbal or physical punishment will not work this time. With a new puppy, follow the principle of gradiation: first only leave for 5 minutes, 10 minutes, and gradually add up the time. Try not to make a big fuss about leaving the house or coming home. Forget the notable greetings and habitual movements, like getting dressed in a rush and running up and down to find your keys. You need to be as casual and calm as you can when you are about to leave the house. If they notice you are about to leave, try giving them some long-lasting snacks so they will be occupied for at least 20 minutes. It will also connect your absence with some yummy rewards. Positive reinforcement is an appropriate way to teach them that there is no need to worry. If you give them a toy filled with snacks like a KONG-ball is always a good idea. If you have the time, go for a long walk, or play for at least minutes with your baby before you leave. Exhausting not only works with human children but with our furry babies too! Always remember: they are our babies, and we need to treat them just like we treat our children when it comes to raising. If you must leave your Frenchie alone for a whole day, you can hire a pet sitter or walker who comes once or twice a day and plays with your dog. We recommend hiring someone from a pet sitter company as they are well-trained animal caregivers. We hope you find this article useful! If you know a friend or neighbor who could benefit from reading it, feel free to share the post! Ultimate Guide. As simple as it sounds, this is when your dog experiences a varying degree of stress when they are away from you. It sounds cute, and it is sweet, but it is a serious behavioral issue that often can lead to some serious destruction! Not to mention, of course, emotional distress on your dog. Have you ever noticed how your Frenchie acts just as excited to see you 5 minutes or 5 hours later? Tugs on your heartstrings, right? Yeah, us too. Are French Bulldogs prone to separation anxiety? As far as a dog breed is concerned, yes, Frenchies are known for being prone to separation anxiety. So, knowing what it is and how to deal with it is crucial! For example, peeing or vomiting in the house could actually be a physical issue, including that you were gone too long. Is it okay to leave my French Bulldog home alone? Yes, of course! Even if your French Bulldog deals with a rather severe separation anxiety, you still have the option and right to leave your home! However, you will have to learn how to help your Frenchie to feel more comfortable when you do so. This will save your furniture and your home itself and improve your quality of life! How long can I leave my French Bulldog home alone? If he pees inside on pads, then you can go up to 8 hours, if needed. Here are some helpful suggestions to support you in doing just that! Punishing will only increase his fear and his anxiety the next time that you leave. This pre-anxiety means that he is going to be even more anxious when he is alone. Counter-condition You can help your dog learn to associate your leaving with a positive emotion to counteract the anxiety , too. This is called counterconditioning, and it takes some time to do right. It consists of giving him his favorite treat or a new, special toy when you leave, and this will associate a happy thing with a negative thing. The happiness will help outweigh the anxiety and, over time, this can help him stay calm and relaxed when you leave. Start with half an hour, then an hour, and so on. This will help both you and he adapt to the time apart and manage the anxiety, as well as what you use to help him manage it in the home. Give him lots of walks and playtime when you are home The more tired he is when you leave, the better! Give him lots of attention, walks, playtime, and more when you are home. He may even be glad to be alone so that he can get some shut-eye! Not really, but you get the point. Give him something scented like you when you leave This is a common trick for those dogs that get very stressed out and destructive. Wear a sweater or t-shirt around all morning. Consider a calming product There are all sorts of anxiety products for dogs out there that can help take the edge off—for example, a separation anxiety jacket, essential oils, and more. Leave the light on with the TV or radio If your house is usually a busy one, leave on a light or two and a television or a radio. Your dog will like it, and it can often help them calm down like white noise. It also helps protect your home from theft too, as an added bonus! Invest in anxiety toys Similar to anxiety products, you can also look at anxiety toys for dogs , which are often referred to as puzzle toys. From mats to stuffies to rubber toys, you can get all sorts of options that will help them feel calmer. You may also want to check with your vet about these too. How do I deal with French Bulldog separation anxiety at night? If your dog is anxious at night because he sleeps in another room from you or in his kennel, you can focus most of your attention on giving them comfort through a product that smells like you or one of the aids such as the puzzle toys, like a snuffle mat or other anxiety products, etc. Again, just experiment to see what works best for your Frenchie. Separation anxiety in your French Bulldog may be challenging and frustrating, but you can get it under control by understanding what it looks like, what it means, and how to address it directly! To Summarise Frenchies can be known for having separation anxiety, which often takes the form of destruction of everything , vomiting or peeing, excessive barking and howling, and frantic behavior when you leave and get back. Did you realize that your dog is dealing with separation anxiety? It does tend to be pretty sneaky in dogs where the symptoms are mild! Please share it with someone else who needs to see the light! If you identify that your Frenchie is suffering from mild to moderate levels of separation anxiety, here are a few things you can do to stop it. Counterconditioning Counterconditioning is all about associating something your dog dislikes with a positive experience. For example, you can give your dog its favorite treats whenever you are about to leave home. That way, your dog will start associating your departure with getting tasty treats. Practice A Calm Routine Practicing a calm routine when you are going to leave the house and as soon as you come back is vital to help your Frenchie deal with separation anxiety. Let your dog calm down before you start giving it some sort of attention. You can also try alternative methods, like putting your shoes on and not leaving home immediately. Instead, you can do other things around the house so your Frenchie will associate you wearing shoes with something else. Over time, your French Bulldog will learn not to make a big deal of you leaving or returning home. Give It A Calming Object Or Product A calming or anxiety product will help your dog deal with nerves associated with separation anxiety. Many anxiety products can help your dog deal with separation anxiety better. Some examples include essential oils and similar products that can help take the edge off. If not, you can check the market for any suitable product to use on your French Bulldog. That way, your dog will forget why it is upset and that you are leaving. Experts recommend giving your French Bulldog a KONG ball filled with peanut butter to distract you when you leave the house. That way, it is less likely to feel anxious when you are away. It depends on what your Frenchie finds to be comfortable. If your dog loves to be crated, crate it before leaving the house. If it prefers to stay in a specific room, leave it there before going. The main goal here is to find a room or place in the house that your French Bulldog feels most comfortable in. Use A Remote Camera Current technological advancements have made it possible to monitor your dog from wherever you are. A remote camera allows for monitoring and engaging your French Bulldog remotely. Ensure that you have a high-quality camera that provides clear visibility so that you can see what your dog is doing. Some of these remote cameras let you see and talk to your dog whenever possible. Before leaving it all day, try a few cycles of short absence. Leave the house for four to five minutes and come back. It will also get your French Bulldog used to staying without you and slowly move away from having feelings of separation anxiety. Burn Off Excess Energy Taking your pup on a walk can help burn off excess energy. Burning off any excess energy your French Bulldog has could also help with separation anxiety. Taking your dog for a walk before you leave can help tremendously. It can help your Frenchie sleep and rest longer when you are out of sight. It will also make it a lot easier for you to leave your dog alone. Something like a smart dog collar with a virtual fence will help keep your dog within boundaries and from getting out of sight. It will trigger a vibration, noise, or shock by the collar whenever your dog crosses the boundary. Punishing should not be done as it will only increase its fear and anxiety the next time you leave the house. These can vary from stuffies to rubber toys or mats. Separation anxiety jackets are also a good solution, as they will make your Frenchie feel like someone is hugging it, which helps calm its anxiety. These jackets help dogs deal with loud music, thunderstorms, fireworks, and other stressful situations. Try and see which one works best for your Frenchie. Therefore, owners must take measures to help their Frenchies deal with separation anxiety. Failure to do so will lead to Frenchies showing destructive behavior. Using calming products, separation anxiety toys and jackets, remote cameras, positive reinforcement, and counterconditioning are a few ways to help your dog deal with separation anxiety. French Bulldogs do not do well alone. Therefore, if you plan to keep it alone for the entire day, getting a pet sitter or training it first to deal with separation anxiety is better. A French Bulldog should not be left alone for more than 8 hours as it could get frustrated and show destructive behavior. Is Separation Anxiety Curable? Separation anxiety is a treatable condition. It is possible to do this through training and behavioral modification. Share it with a friend or link it to social media. Enjoy short clips of silly dogs? Best dog training videos? Holistic puppy training tips? Follow us on instagram nydognanny or on YouTube at nydognanny. Have some news you needs to get to dog and cat parents stat? Email info newyorkdognanny.
There is no dog breed that is a Black Golden Retriever. The Flat-Coated Retrievers or mixed breeds have the dominant E allele which produces the black or liver color in skin or fur. The recessive e allele will always produce a coat that is yellow or red in color. But it is possible to have a nearly purebred black Golden Retriever that looks and acts like a golden retriever except for the black color. See 1 below for the explanation as well as some other ways for a dogs to appear to be a black Golden Retriever. For example, a breeder may have crossed a Golden Retriever with a Flat Coated Retriever, then bred the black puppies back to Golden Retrievers. They then kept breeding successive generations of only the black puppies back to Golden Retrievers until the type and personality matched the Goldens Retriever again except for the black coat. This is how many breeds were created in the first place. So the black Golden Retrievers being advertised may or may not be exactly like a Golden Retriever based on how many generations ago the outcross happened. Breeder Warning! If a breeder tries to tell you they are selling AKC registered Black Golden Retrievers, then you should look for another breeder. Listing the wrong dog as a sire or dam is very unethical. A breeder may tell you that their black golden retriever dogs are purebred but not registered. This is controversial as the meaning of purebred is difficult to define. Some consider an outcross more than 5 generations back to be unimportant. While it is ok to purchase these dogs, I would avoid paying extreme prices for what may be a mixed breed dog. An ethical breeder will be happy to explain how the black gene entered their Golden Retriever gene pool. Which means, if this type of genetic mutation occurs in a Golden Retriever it will show up as a black patch on the skin or fur, not the whole coat. Check out this facebook photo of a Golden like this. Sometimes it can be challenging to tell the different breeds apart. In this article we will discuss why the Flat-Coated Retriever and the Golden Retriever are similar, but different breeds. We will also look at the science behind these two breeds and discuss some other breeds that are very similar. If you are looking to purchase a Black Golden, then there are a few breeds to consider. Below we will cover some dogs that appear to be a Black Golden Retriever, but are not. Here are 4 possible breeds that can be mistaken for a black Golden Retriever. They may look and act remarkably like a Golden Retriever, but they are their own breed. They can only be black or liver in color. Check out our article on Flat Coated Retrievers vs. Golden Retrievers. Hovawart A Hovawart looks like a mixed breed of a Golden Retriever and a Rottweiler or Doberman, but they are their own breed. They are larger than a Golden and have about the same body and shape. Newfoundland A Newfoundland is like the Golden Retriever. They have the same blocky head and similar facial expressions. The big difference is they are twice the size and shed twice the amount of fur than Golden Retrievers. They are a mix of a Golden Retriever and another breed. Whether you are looking to purchase a Flat-Coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, or a Mixed Breed Retriever make sure that you are using a reputable breeder that knows the genetic and health background of the parents and the puppy. If they do not have a lot of knowledge about the breed or puppy, it would be best to find another breeder. They are still out there, but you may have to do a little more research to find one. There are some dogs that are a mix of Golden Retriever and another breed. Be sure the breeder provides you with all the necessary information about the different breeds involved as well as health and temperament information. It will not be hard to find one. There are many Goldens out there that need some love. Conclusion Golden Retrievers come in many colors and types. There are many options if you are looking for a Golden Retriever type of dog with a black coat. If you would like to learn more about the types and colors of Golden Retrievers, check out our article Types and Colors of Golden Retrievers. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. So while a dog like a Chihuahua Great Dane mix is possible with medical intervention, looking for purebred black Golden Retrievers for sale will disappoint. Anybody claiming their black puppies are purebreds are likely trying to scam you, so be careful. It is possible that Golden Retrievers get a pigment somatic mutation that can cause a black patch of fur. But this will never make their entire body black. Golden retrievers have a specific genetic makeup that produces their characteristic golden coat color. This means that they can only produce puppies with red or cream-colored coats. In short, if you see a dog resembling a black Golden Retriever, it is probably a different Retriever breed, called the Flat-Coated Retriever, with a signature black coat. The other possibility is that it is a Golden Retriever crossed with another breed with a dominant black gene. Rare colors like Merle could only result from outcrossing with dogs like Australian Shepherds. When two different breeds are bred together, the resulting puppies can inherit a wide range of traits from both parents, making it difficult to predict their temperament, health, and physical appearance. In short, obtaining a puppy from an ethical breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and committed to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies is always essential. Dogs have various gene pairs called alleles that determine their coat color and patterns. Coat genetics is complicated, so we will only cover the two essential major genes determining Golden Retriever colors. Firstly, black dogs have a kind of pigment called eumelanin, while red or yellow dogs have a pigment called pheomelanin. Goldens only have gene for pheomelanin, which means they can only be shades of red or cream never black. This is unlike their black Labrador or Flat-Coated Retriever cousins that have dominant black coat genes. The gene for black coloring is the E-locus gene, which is a dominant gene. So all purebred Golden Retrievers have a recessive gene that ensures their signature golden cream, yellow, and red coloring. You can only get a black dog from a Golden Retriever parent by crossing them with a dog with a dominant E-locus gene. The problem with this is that the gene for a black coat is a dominant gene, not a recessive one. This dominant E-locus has been bred out of the Golden Retriever bloodline and true Goldens only have recessive genes for cream, yellow, and red coats as per their breed standard. Finally, how rich or intense their color is, is determined by their recessive dilute gene. Dogs with dilute genes will be a light cream color, and those without may be rich dark red color. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Just like the black Golden Retriever, silver or blue is not a color that exists in purebred Golden Retrievers. Silver, blue, or gray are dilute versions of the black color gene. To get a Golden Retriever that has this color variation, you would likely have to mix them with a silver dog like a Weimaraner or rare blue German Shepherd or Blue Bay Shepherd. There is no such this as a white or platinum Golden Retriever. English Cream is the lightest color you can get, which is nearly white, but is a very dilute yellow color. It is unclear if any albino Golden Retrievers exist, and if they do, it is exceptionally rare. Albinism in dogs is a genetic mutation where they lack any pigment in the skin. The Flat-Coated Retriever looks exceptionally similar to the Golden Retriever, with glossy black coats instead of shades of gold. These dogs are slightly more independent, have longer noses, have a sleeker build, and are generally more energetic. Are there Green Golden Retriever Puppies? In , the internet went wild over a picture of a newborn green Golden Retriever puppy called Forest. This natural discharge would simply wash off over time. Golden Retrievers are one of many dogs that get patches of pigment on their tongues, causing a black or purple spot. This is usually not more than a birthmark or a freckle and is nothing to worry about. This color is more common in European bloodlines, and some breeders specialize in producing English cream golden retrievers. This color is still considered within the range of acceptable colors for the breed, and it does not represent a distinct genetic mutation or variation. This color is deeper and richer than the typical golden or red shades, and some breeders selectively breed for this color. However, like the English cream color, it is still a standard color for Golden Retrievers. While coat color can be an interesting and appealing aspect of a dog, it should never be the sole reason for choosing a particular breed or breeder. Final Thoughts The idea of a black Golden Retriever or silver or any other color is charming, but there is no way for this to happen in purebred dogs. Suppose you do come across a black golden retriever. Dogs should be bred for health and temperament before color, which is the most important thing to look for when buying any puppy. Alternatively, adopting a rescue dog is always a good option. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Should you get a Black Golden retriever puppy? It is the perfect family dog. A golden retriever can be your friend, your jogging partner and a reason to smile and love daily in the hefty world. The golden retriever with gold hair on his or her body looks beautiful when playing in the lawn. But lately, a lot of people have shown interest and love for the Black Golden retrievers. Black retriever? Do the black golden retrievers even exist? Is black golden retriever is any different from the regular the golden retriever? How do they look? Do they share the same breed? How is it black? What are you talking about? Well, ladies and gentlemen, these kinds of questions I have been hearing for quite a time now, and I especially dedicated the today's article for you to tell you everything you need to know about the Black Golden retrievers. This article will help you get all the information regarding the black golden retriever breed and the ultimate answers to all of your questions. So, hold on your horses, turn off any distraction and get that chips packet and get right into the content, maybe this breed will be your next pet. Sounds great, doesn't it? It does, so let's find out about this mystery. What basically are the black Golden Retrievers? They share all the same characteristics, but they have that classic midnight shade. Black Golden Retrievers exist, yes for real, and they are same as intelligent and friendly as The Golden ones but have that glamourous black colour. I love the colour I hope you do too, so my love for black retrievers is exceptional. One of the reasons for the importance of the black Golden Retrievers is that they can surely be purebred. They are just black because of the genetic diversity factor which was added into their bloodline in the breed development processes. Major people think that a purebred black Golden Retriever is the outcome of a Flat-Coated bred Retriever that was used in the breeding process to make the Golden Retrievers. The black colour they have just becomes of the recessive gene that came up in the next litters. But, the Flat-Coated Retrievers are an entirely separate breed which is actually not wholly suitable for the first-time dog owners. The flat-coated retrievers have higher impulse and nature to wander than the pure Golden retriever, and they might have the need of more exercise daily. So comparing with all that, Black Golden retrievers are very easy to train, they have a relaxed nature that means they donk bark and irritate that much as compared to other breeds , and they will surely stick by and love your family. The physical differences There are quite a lot of physical differences between these two diverse breeds. Though, Flat-Coated Retrievers have a long and a wavy coat, which is nowhere close as thick as the Golden retriever's body. To describe to you an interesting fact, the Black Golden retrievers can be purebred, but they can never possibly perform in the show rings. The reason for that is the British, Canadian and American Kennel Club are very strict in the colouration requirements. The ultimate comparison of Black Golden retrievers with the Golden retrievers As a matter of fact, the Black Golden Retrievers are no any different than the old Golden Retrievers. The main difference is in their coating which is entirely black. The average Black Golden retriever can live for up to 12 maybe 13 years old and can have a height of 23—24 inches. The healthy Black retriever can weigh between 70 to 76 pounds. Most of its physical properties are like the Traditional Golden retrievers just the difference is in the colour and minor other differences. The Black Golden share the same temperament as the traditional Golden retrievers. That means if you are thinking to buy a puppy of this breed you will get an affectionate, lovely, friendly, and also a little bit goofy dog in your home. The traditional golden retrievers need consistent and many exercises. They have that tropical travelling nature. Same is with the Black Golden retrievers. The black or golden retriever is full of love, literally always but you have to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. The bad mood of your Golden or Black Retriever can result in the catastrophe of your new Nike sneakers, and no one wants that, so keep your dog happy and healthy. If you want a Golden Retriever but with an exciting and different coloured coating, then look no further as the Black Golden retriever is the dog you want. The share all those wonderful characteristics that the traditional golden retrievers have. This is the perfect family dog. The Black Golden retriever is also very sociable, that means you won't have a hard time to teach your dog to be social and well-mannered. The Black Golden retrievers are very patient, friendly and gentle. They play well with small children and are very excited to join their little adventures. So now you have discovered that the black golden retrievers are not much different than the traditional Golden retrievers and maybe you want this breed for your new pet. If you are interested and excited to get a Black Golden Retriever, you have to go to a dog breeder and the black golden retriever specialist to learn more about the breed and the guidelines to have better care. You will get a best friend for 12 years if your dog is guaranteed by the breeder to be healthy and you keep him or her healthy too. For that you have to find the trusted and well-reputed pet provider in your area, ask around in the family and friends, search online, visit and ask other people views about the pet specialist especially the Golden retrievers one. Make up your mind to take care properly of the new puppy because it will be no less than raising a baby. Provide a good environment for your Black Golden retriever puppy and raise him or her well to be very responsible, caring, well mannered and a good dog citizen. So what are you waiting for? Go and buy your new little best friend and enjoy the life. Need our help? Contact us, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Check with local veterinarians' offices, animal shelters, pet supply stores, and other area pet business for referrals to dog rescue organizations in your area. Contact one local dog rescue group for referral to other area groups. Some dog rescue groups work with all dogs, while others are breed-specific. Most rescues groups have established networks with other area rescues. The organization's website also provides links to rescue organizations. Although the majority of dogs looking for new homes through rescue groups are adults, sometimes rescue groups have puppies to place. Most German Shepherds looking for homes through rescue groups do not have papers. If registering your puppy is important, or if you intend to enter it into competitions, you will need its title papers and health records, so a rescued dog may not be right for you. Many dog rescues will require a thorough application process in order to assure that you will be a good fit for the dog. Be prepared to disclose your address and whether you own your home, as well as your employment status and your philosophy when it comes to raising a dog. You will want to make sure that the dog's temperament works well with you and your family. Ask whether you can get the dog checked out by your veterinarian. You will want your vet to check the dog's general health and for serious conditions, such as heart murmurs. Be sure to ask about the dog's health while the rescue has had it and if it is up to date on shots and healthcare. A good rescue should actually offer this information upfront. Get a history of the dog's healthcare up to that point. Has it had its first vaccination, had heart worm treatment, and parasite control? These should have all been done before the age when a puppy is adoptable. While many rescue organizations cannot tell you much about the dogs they place, because the dogs have been rescued off the street or they have been given up anonymously, sometimes they have a bit of information. Get all the information you can about the dog's past so that you can assess their general background and health. Dog rescue organizations are usually run on a shoe-string budget. While they depend mostly on volunteers, they do need funds to transport and care for dogs. Your adoption fee will most likely help to pay for the rescue of other dogs in the future. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.
Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. South African Boerboel Puppies Puppies are vet checked, dewormed with first vaccines and docked tails. They are between 56 and 60 cm high and weight between 40 and 45 kg. Both are very friendly with People, Children.Handsome, adorable male! This georgeous puppy is ready for his new forever home! Mom is a pitbull, dad is a boxer. Healthy, dewormed and has 2 shots. Very playful, active and sweet. Can provide papers from vet. Price is negotiable. Serious inquiries only please. Boxers are one of the most amazing family dogs and deserve a loving forever home. Kijiji constantly glitches and changes the date of birth. Born Aug 9th and can be ready for their forever home for Oct 4th. Mom is onsite. Looking for forever homes boxers are very lovable.These happy girls will come vet checked, first shots and dewormed. If you're looking for a sweet.Raised in home Tails docked First vaccines Dewormed Health book Super social and cuddly, the puppies are raised in our home. They are used to.Contact for more details. Best blood line. Crate and potty trained. Comes with initial stuff like crate, leash, collar, toys, Each comes with first vaccination, dewormed and vet check. Puppies are playful and used to being.I am looking to re-home him because my work circumstances have changed and I do.Mom is an American Bulldog and dad is a Boxer. Both parents have amazing temperments. If you like lots of snuggles then these babies are for.We have remaining: 1 brown female 1 brown male 1 brindle female 1 brindle male They come dewormed. Toronto Ready to go! I hope you're having a great day. Please take a moment to read through the information provided before asking.Born right on our front step, these sweet-hearts have been handled from day one. Friendly and playful, each.They come with a 2 year guarantee on hips heart and temperament. Vet checked and first shots. Tails and dew claws removed. Started to crate.There are 3 girls available. They will come fully vet checked with first and second shots, de worming and a clear bill of health.Please Contact Pocket Puppies Belleville I have a gorgeous litter of pocket puppies ready for their new homes. They will come fully vet checked with first shots, de worming and a clear bill of health from a.There are 3 girls and 2 boys available. Puppies will be ready to go home on August 11th. They will come fully vet checked
Check out our other picks for best quality and value wire dog crates. Wire dog crates are possibly the most used, the most commonly seen and generally speaking what people think of when you mention a dog crate. They come with a single door as standard, but some models have multiple doors side and roof for greater access. Advantages of Wire Crates: Very easy to keep clean. Allows the greatest airflow of all crate styles which is particularly nice in hotter climates. Many models fold flat for portability. Can come with divider panels for adjusting the crate size to suit a growing puppy. Most models have a slide out tray for ease of cleaning. Disadvantages of Wire Crates For some dogs, instead of comforting them being able to look around and see the family, the visibility can cause whining and stress. Some dogs are best covered over…but you can of course cover a wire crate. Can feel exposed, offering little shelter in colder climates. They may be collapsible for portability, but they can also be quite heavy! The noisiest of crates when dogs move around a lot. The easiest of crates to escape from for determined and intelligent dogs. Plastic Dog Crates Check out our picks of the best plastic travel crates. Plastic dog crates are the most often used for travel, particularly air travel. Advantages of Plastic Crates Lighter and hence more portable than wire, metal ones. Bottom of crate can sometimes be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer wanted. More sheltered, offering better insulation in colder climates Better for those that whine and cry if they can see activity and want to be a part of it. Less visibility better for easily distracted dogs and a greater feeling of security for a dog. More difficult than most wire crates for escape artists to get out of. Disadvantages of Plastic Crates Enclosed nature can stress some dogs who prefer visibility of their surroundings cure this with crate training! Harder to clean and therefore harder to keep fresh, and plastic can hold odors over time that become hard to eliminate. Cannot fold flat so need more storage space than wire crates. Reduced ventilation can cause overheating in places with a hot climate. Not very attractive, although people have different tastes. Way more practical for travelling types too, as can be folded flat and and weigh next to nothing, making them a highly portable option. Advantages of Soft-Sided Crates Extremely light and portable, most coming with a carry bag. Extremely easy to store when not being used and folded. Soft and flexible, they are more comfortable for the dog inside compared to most crates Great to use when out camping due to being extremely easy to put up and take down. Disadvantages of Soft-Sided Crates Not the most durable and long-lasting. Destructive dogs can literally claw and chew their way out, destroying the crate in the process. Some dogs can learn how to unzip and open the doors. Stylish Dog Crates Check out our list of of high quality, stylish, wooden furniture style crates. There are many styles of crate to suit those people who simply cannot stand the look of a wire or plastic one in their home, or are looking for something a little more stylish. There are crates made from rattan or a variety of finished wood crates available. Advantages of Wooden Crates Can more easily fit into the look of a home and its decor. Can double up as a shelf or end table to offer a usable surface. Huge number of styles available. Disadvantages of Wooden Crates Not good for destructive dogs who can really damage wooden crates. Not good for the house training process as any accidents will leave stains, possibly hard to remove odors and be hard to clean thoroughly. Expensive when compared to the others! In my opinion, until your dog is house trained and completely over their destructive chewing stage, the most practical crate is without doubt a collapsible wire type dog crate. You can see our pick of the best collapsible wire crates available by clicking here. Compared to other styles, a wire crate is by far the easiest to clean if there are any accidents, are highly durable and is the only one that cannot be damaged by the scratching and chewing of a destructive dog…and many Labradors love to scratch and chew! Recommended Crates By Us! With so many crates available to choose from, making the right choice is no easy task. These are the most popular crates with the highest feedback and most satisfied customers you can find. Quality and value proven by the feedback from many, many previous buyers: My Top Recommendation For US Readers: Midwest Life Stages Dog Crate This is — in my opinion — the best value for money crate available and with extremely good customer feedback to be found all over the web, many would agree. With a divider included free of charge, this single crate bought for a new puppy can be resized to provide increasing room and still fit them as an adult. This is one crate you should definitely shortlist and compare to any others you may be considering. They have a huge amount of extremely good customer feedback and receive high ratings from previous buyers everywhere they are for sale on the web. It would be extremely hard to better value in the UK for the money, so is definitely one to consider! But if you have a puppy, buy a crate for the size of adult dog they will grow to become and use a divider to reduce the size of this larger crate to suit them. For Labrador Retrievers this will be a 36 or inch crate. A stainless steel wire crate is the most practical and best value choice for a number of reasons as detailed above. But for transporting in a car or by air, a plastic crate would be the best choice. If you can afford to, I would suggest a permanent metal wire one for the home and a plastic one for travel. For those that would like to preserve an overall look to their house there are many stylish finished wood crates available and I think these can really look good in some houses. More information: This was part 4 in an 8-part series that details everything you need to know about the use of a crate and crate training your puppy. The information applies equally well to dogs of all breeds and not just Labradors. The Entire series is linked to here:. You have to consider the materials, quality, costs, and more. Material A wire is a top material choice for labrador retrievers. They are easier to clean, durable, and provide comfort. Plastic and wood are other options. Plastic crates are not much breathable but are great for traveling. Quality A pet owner wants a crate that lasts for a lifetime. Wire and metal labrador crates last longer than plastic, wood, and soft ones. A metal crate is great for the chewey pet if you expect durability. Cost The crate price is a crucial consideration. Browse different options and choices. The price may not always signify quality. Never compromise on quality over price. Purpose Why are you getting a crate? Is it his new bed or the chill-out space? If so, consider the wooden or wire crates based on your home decor. A soft crate is a suitable option for travel. The soft crates slide into your car and let the dog sit safely. Opt for a crash-resistant dog crate if you travel frequently. The dog crate must have room for free movement but not too much room. Labradors measure from 55 to 80 pounds when mature. Each crate has its measurement and size. From a small to an extra-large dog crate, all sizes are available. It should have enough room to let the dog stand and turn comfortably. Most 42 inches crates work well for labradors. Comfort If the crate is uncomfortable, the lab will not use it. Add a simple mattress to make your pup warm. Avoid blankets as labs tend to chew. They use the crate to relax after performing strenuous outdoor activities. Sending him in the crate without exercise can be disastrous. It can turn the crate from being a comfortable space to not so comfortable space. The pent-up energy makes them bite the wire and cause injury. What Size Crate for a Labrador Puppy? A larger crate can act as a toilet space rather than for sleeping. The crate must be big enough for your labrador to fit. Newborn to 7 Weeks A inch crate will fit the mother and the litter. The inactive pups will spend most time inside initially. The mother moves in and out of the crate as desired. They will need new labrador crates. A crate with a divider will help create sections inside. A inch crate is suitable until the labrador puppy is 16 weeks. This size dog crate will suffice till they are 6 months. Their speed of growth also plays a central role in deciding crate size. Get a large crate for a taller and older dog. Measuring your lab beforehand will fetch the best results. It will give an accurate size and ensure your pet gets crate trained properly. Benefits of Dog Crating A crate offers the following benefits to your new puppy or dog. Safe Sleep and Relaxation Space A crate is a safe sleep space for your pet. Pay close attention during the crate training process. Though domesticated dogs are distinct, they love the den space to sleep peacefully. Home training becomes simplified if they are confined to a small space, You can use it to your advantage and reduce accidents. Safe Space to Keep Them A crate means your dog has a safe space when you are not watching. It refrains them from chewing furniture or accessing kitchen cupboards. Labradors are intelligent and find their ways to reach things. Puppies are more unpredictable. However, the arena is safe when your dog has been crate trained. Once trained, they will relax and calm down in the dog crate. Preparing for Future Travel Crate training a lab puppy before traveling makes your journey hassle-free. Training them young is wise. Being inside the crate minimizes stress. Dogs can relax if they know how to sleep in a crate. They are kept in crates if they need to stay overnight at the vets. Crate training from Day 1 can make a significant difference in your labrador. Some labrador puppies do not enjoy the confinement even with effective crate training. A nervous or untrained puppy inside the crate is not good. A stressed dog inside a crate can cause a welfare issue. Risks Nose or limbs getting caught in the wires. Injury caused by an attempted escape. A feeling of stress, anxiety, or claustrophobia. Choking to death by getting the collar struck or trying to escape. Things that make a dog crate awesome differ from one labrador puppy to another. Consider all factors before buying a dog crate. Crate size is the primary factor. Not only for locating dog but also for use as a bed. Pick a product that matches your home aesthetics. It can be made of natural wood or have funky colors. No dog should spend more than a few hours inside the crate. Crates are meant for safety and not to lock away the dog. Keeping him inside for too long leads to destructive behavior. The dog becomes fearful of the crate. Follow these guidelines for keeping dogs in the crate. The time allotments remain the same for all dog sizes. Dog crate training is not cruel. The security of the den appeals to the pets. They will rarely hesitate if they know it is safe. Use positive reinforcement to train your labrador retrievers adequately. How to Make the Crate More Comfortable? Dog crates are excellent for house training your pet. However, dogs can chew blankets and towels when left alone. Look for a durable option for the best experience. Consider a machine-washable blanket that is easy to clean. Add some chew toys to prevent other things from getting destroyed. Durable chew toys are must-haves inside the dog crate. Many pet owners make their dogs have food inside the crate. It makes them feel safe and comfortable. However, leaving them a food bowl while you are away is not recommended. It can make the bedding wet and cause discomfort. Keep a fresh bowl of water outside the crate. A cheap crate also does the same work. Various sites sell free dog crates to clear up space. You can also borrow a crate from a friend if they no longer need it. Second-hand dog crates will also cost lesser than new ones. Check for products on sale or discounts to grab an economical deal. Note the dimension from his nose tip to the tail base. Now add inches to it to get the perfect measurement. Follow it by adding more inches. It is the shortest crate height you must get. How to crate train a lab puppy? For a first-time dog owner , crate training a lab puppy takes time. Avoid rushing your labrador retriever inside the crate. Dog owners can keep a few treats inside their crates to encourage them. Once they willingly hop in, lock the door. Keep them inside for longer hours gradually. Locking him inside to punish is a big no. It can hinder the crate training process, and they will associate it negatively. Place food and water inside the crates and lock the doors when your dog eats. Open the doors when they finish eating during the initial phase. Gradually, you can keep the door closed for longer periods. Put bedding , toys , and other pet accessories to make it more comfortable. You can also add a crate cover, as some pets appreciate dark environments while napping. Leaving home and coming back should not be viewed differently. For example, put the dog inside the crate minutes before leaving. Refrain from greeting him for minutes on arrival, and remain low-key. Keep them inside the crate for shorter periods when you are home. Dogs will start viewing crating as a day-to-day activity and not feel abandoned. Once crate trained, they will love their personal space. Picking a robust dog crate is recommended for the best experience. Midwest Homes has some of the best dog crates for labradors. From security to leak-proof, the perks are ample. If your dog desires a soft crate, go for Amazon Basics. Each product is made to keep your pup secure and comfortable. FAQs Is crate training cruel? Not at all. Crating is excellent when your dog is house-trained well. They will view it as a cozy nest. Locking them inside for long hours will culminate in a negative association. Can I take my labrador on an airplane with these crates? Each airline has its own rules and regulations. Please check airline suitability before making a purchase. Labrador retriever is less likely to fit in a carrier for in-cabin flights. The right crate for your labrador would be a plastic one. How long can a labrador stay in the crate? Adult labrador retrievers can be kept inside a crate for max hours. Leaving them more than this impacts their physical and mental health. Are wire or plastic dog crates better? Both plastic and metal wire dog crates serve different needs. Metal wire crates can withstand more pressure. They will resist a puppy who flings its body. Plastic ones fulfill travel requirements; they make it hard for your dog to break out of them. When should I stop my lab from crating at night? You can stop your lab from crating at night around two years of age. They are less likely to get in trouble at this age. However, they must be supervised until fully mature. About The Author Sarah Sheikh Labradors have an extraordinary capacity for love and companionship, and my mission is to help you unlock their full potential. Hi there! I'm Sarah, a proud contributor to Labradorandyou, the go-to online resource for all Labrador Retriever enthusiasts. As a lifelong owner and avid admirer of these remarkable dogs, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to our readers. One of my strongest beliefs is in the power of positive reinforcement training. I'm truly passionate about helping our readers build strong, positive relationships with their Labradors. Whether you're a first-time owner or a seasoned Labrador enthusiast, I aim to provide you with the resources and guidance to cultivate a bond that will endure a lifetime. Material This is a polyester product, which is great for moving Labrador puppies. In theory, you can use this crate even as a dog home as long as your puppy is young, but that would make it harder for your Labrador to accept a metal crate later on. The harder potions of this crate are made of PVC, which is sturdier than polyester but is a nightmare to clean. Other Features While the product will last a much shorter while than its metal counterparts, it does present its own advantages. The key features include the breathability of polyester, lack of stimuli, and a fleece pet bed. It is pretty easy to carry and comes with a strap to help manage this. Convenience With this product, the convenience is dictated entirely by how well-trained your dog is. This travel crate defies that principle and presents a spacious way of housing your Labrador on your travels. Material This crate incorporates both metal and plastic, which is great for travel but inconvenient for home use. Opaque plastic on the side reduces this stimulation, while the metal wire window keeps your dog from feeling claustrophobic. The crate dimensions stand at 48 inches x 32 inches x 35 inches, comparable and even more spacious than many metal options. Instead, you should compare it to other portable options. The plastic sides are better than polyester panels commonly used in travel crates. The metal wire window alongside the ventilation holes at the back allows air to circulate properly. It features metal bars and a wooden roof, panels, and flooring. Material The product features wood which can be a concerning aspect because of the rivalry between dogs and wooden posts. However, this is plastic wood and is not as scratchable. According to the manufacturer, the wood is non-toxic and recycled. The stainless steel bars are obviously strong enough to make sure the crate boundaries are actual boundaries and not suggestions like they are with travel crates. Size The crate is .With a .Other Features The only prominent feature is the style and aesthetic appeal of this crate. While most crates look like jailhouses, this one looks like a luxurious house arrest destination. It comes in black, white, grey, espresso, and russet colors, of which I only knew three. Espresso is a fancy way of saying brownish-grey and russet, reddish-brown. This variety allows you to pick the crate that complements your furniture. Convenience Despite looking like a complicated piece of carpentry, the crate is easy to assemble and requires no tools. It also doubles as furniture making it more convenient for you to make room for the crate, especially if you live in a studio apartment. All in all, I love the look of this crate and the great choice of colors which will fit any decor. You can also use it as an effective time-out during training. Material The playpen is made of materials not disclosed by manufacturers, but I can convey it best by describing the feel. The exterior of this water-proof playpen feels like canvas, while the bottom feels like the outside of a tent. The material is sturdy but is no match to plastic or metal. Size This is one of the most spacious items on this post because it serves a different purpose. It is not meant to be the sleeping place of a dog or a traveling carry-case. It gives an inspiring environment for your Labrador and spans 61 inches in length and breadth across its octagonal shape and 30 inches in height. Other Features and Convenience The product comes with a carry mechanism that makes it look like a large laptop bag and features outer pockets and even a water bottle holder. Best Metal Playpen MidWest Homes for Pets Foldable Metal Playpen Click HERE to check the latest price on Amazon This product brings together the spaciousness of the previous option with the sturdiness of the first item in this post, making the perfect environment for your Labrador to relax or play within a relatively confined space. I love this idea as it gives your Lab loads more room whilst keeping him in a safe environment and allowing a positive experience. Material This playpen features metal wire panels and has an open top and bottom. In other words, the flooring could be grass or carpet, depending on the place where you assemble the playpen. Size Each panel is 24 inches wide, and there are eight panels. You can determine the width of the playpen by assembling the panels closely or even attaching extra panels. Convenience The most convenient thing about this playpen is that it takes your hands off of babysitting your dog. This also is the thing you must be most concerned about because leaving your Lab in his playpen for extended periods might make it easier for you to slack off on your responsibility to socialize with your best friend, take him out on walks, and play with him. Labradors need a inch-size crate, so their size is well-accommodated in it. The crate should also be 27 inches tall at minimum, so the dog can safely stand without hitting his head and 28 inches wide so that he can move around, lie on his side, and comfortably stretch out his paws. The best crate size for a Labrador puppy is 42 inches. A wire crate with a divider is perfect as you can start your pup off in a small enough space by setting the divider a few inches away from his full length and continue to adjust as the dog grows. This also speeds up potty training. Which Crate Should I Pick? Labradors are very social and strong enough to rip apart delicate boundaries that cordon them off from their favorite pastime: playing with people. Related Posts You May Like:. There are lots of options for securing your dog in the car. From seat belts, to harnesses and car crates. Your choice will depend upon your dog, your car and you. Or indeed for your safety. A dog riding on the front seat of the car is far more likely to be injured in the event of a crash, and to distract you whilst you are driving. Many dogs are restless in cars. A large Labrador pacing about and panting in your ear is still a distraction, even from the back seat. He is also likely to be injured, and to injure you, in the event of a collision. However you can buy dog seat belts, which are harnesses to keep your dog controlled when on the back seat. There are pros and cons to these, which we will look at in a moment. Your final option is for your Lab to ride in the back of your car. Secured there in a car crate or by a dog divider. If you decide to use a car harness then you will need to introduce this slowly, getting your dog used to being in the harness and not restricted, and rewarding him for his good behavior. The belt can be lengthened to suit the size of your dog, from 16 to 27 inches, and is 1 inch wide. You will need to combine it with a good quality harness to ensure that your dog is kept safe if you have to stop suddenly. Whilst some dogs can be trained to sit still in a car harness, others can find this restriction stressful. Getting themselves worked up, or even tangled in them. The other downside of having your dog riding on the back seat is the mess. Labradors feet are likely to get muddy and wet on regular occasions. They drool, and in many cases chew as well. Their claws can do a real number on the fabric of your seats, and if you have leather seats can scratch and damage the surface easily. Even with the most laid back dogs. You might therefore like to consider having your dog ride in the back of the car, if your vehicle type has space for him to do so. Dog Car Dividers A dog car divider separates the space between the trunk of the car and the passenger area. It contains your dog, leaving him room to lay down without being able to access the rest of the vehicle. The divider you choose may depend upon the size of your car. There are universal pet dividers available, but still make sure to check the make and model of your vehicle and to measure the area you wish to fit the barrier into before purchasing. The very popular Highland Universal Pet Divider is designed to safely keep your Labrador in the cargo area. It fits into the car with no fixings required, so is quick to insert and remove. But it is also very durable. The finish has a modern style to it, and the structure is made of heavy-gauge tubing. It adjusts up to 45 inches high and 65 inches wide, which will fit most vehicles. The downside of a divider is that whilst it separates your dog, it does not contain them in any way. Meaning it is still possible to accidentally damage the interior of your car, as your dog is free within the space. This is why for many people, a properly designed dog travel crate is the best option. Dog Travel Crates There are a number of options for dog travel crates, and the one you choose will depend largely upon the type of car that you drive. Traditional Dog Crates If your car has a large, open cargo area then you might like to buy a traditional wire dog crate to use in the back. They are good value, and if you have a crate at home then your Labrador will be able to have a familiar one to match it. Traditional dog crates come with one or two doors. If you are fitting your crate into a car, make sure that there is a door on the side the will be facing the front of your car. Double door car crates can be slightly more expensive, but you may find one easier to fit into the space available. However, many cars have sloping back windows, which do not allow a traditional style crate to fit within them. Sloping Crates Sloping crates are similarly styled to traditional dog crates, but have a sloping front panel and rear panel to fit into your car better. Giving more room for the crate and therefore for your Labrador too. The Trixie Pet Metallic Crate is well constructed, secure and resistant to scratching. The melamine coating on the wood panels will not smudge, and so it will stay looking nice. The crate is framed in aluminum and has tight fitting hard plastic joints. It comes in a variety of sizes, the larger of which will easily accommodate even the largest fully grown Labrador. The downside of large, heavy fixed structure crates, is that they can be inconvenient to remove and store. Soft Travel Crates Soft travel crates are light weight, foldable and comfortable for your dog. This means that as well as being convenient for irregular use in the car, you can if you like re-errect it and use it when you get to your destination. Perfect for holiday travel. The crate has top, side and front entry doors, and mesh window panels. The base is water resistant, so it can stand up to post-walk muddy paws. Plastic Travel Crates Finally you might be interested in using a plastic dog carry crate instead. These are of the variety often used for air travel, and if you travel by car and by plane with your dog they can be a great cost saving choice. The Petmate Sky Kennel is a heavy duty plastic travel crate. Ideal for long distance journeys, with a secure construction including non-corrosive plastic wing nuts and extra strong steel wire. The door has secure latches, which are easy to operate from the outside. It also has plenty of ventilation points and a door which can be looked out from. It comes in a variety of sizes, and you should pick the one which is at least 3 inches taller than your Labrador, so that he can easily stand up, turn around and lie down without feeling cramped. The travel car crate, car divider or dog seat belt that you choose for your Labrador should work for both your mode of transport and your dog. If you have a tiny cargo area in your car and a large Labrador, then gently introducing them to a seat belt and harness is probably the best option. However, for most vehicles the back is the best place for him. A good travel crate will keep your Labrador safe, secure and happy whilst you take your journey.
I have never seen such a strong consistent pedigree from one single breeder. Each dog carries with it not only prestigious bloodlines but the owner and breeder of Carolina Bullies, Zach, is noteworthy himself. His dedication to his dogs and the service he provides to the families is unmatched. I truly have never had such an experience with a breeder. My bully boy has the most amazing temperament and has been so easy to train. I cannot stress how important that was to me since I have 3 small children. I could not be more satisfied with my experience. Carolina Bullies is my final destination. I highly recommend you make the same choice for yourself. The Kellum Family We couldn't help but go back and get another! From beginning to end Zach was very responsive and reliable. We were so happy with Carolina Bullies that we couldn't help but go back and get another! We now have two beautiful XL American Bullies that have the best temperament. Marissa C. 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Odin has completed our family and not only am I honored to own a dog from Carolina Bullies, but I am also grateful to Zach for his personal and continued support in raising our dog. Thank you, Zach! Baily R. We are known for the world famous two-faced Merle american bully, Phantom. Our dogs are the best family dogs, amazing temperament with infants, children and adults. Our productions are known to have quality, size, structure and beautiful colors. Let a swag pup join your family today! As dog owners, we understand that our dog is not just our companion or best friend but also part of the family. It is without saying that you cannot find a true friend and companion from any dick and harry but from a trusted dog breeder and seller such as Swag Kennels. At Swag Kennels, we breed and sell the best and high-quality American Bully breeds. When it comes to choosing the right American Bully for you, Swag Kennels is the place to seek. At Swag Kennels, we offer the best of both XL and XXL American Bullies of different colors from brown, black, white, blue, fawn, ticking, brindle, lilac-tri, chocolate, to champagne. If you are seeking to buy an American Bully, you can always count on Swag Kennels. To choose your dream dog, visit our instagramm page. If you are sick with COVID Avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask. He was worth every dime. Thank you Swag Kennels for great customer service! My kids so happy with new family member! Our family are Delighted with her! Sophie Great people, they go above and beyond for their customers and treat their pups like family. 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She's playful, cuddly, loving, well behaved and not to mention the cutest thing ever! We love her so much!! Abby Barber Can't wait to see my little baby pitbull! I talked to Yulia, she answered all my questions, was really nice and knowledgeable. And now I paid the deposit and just waiting for my cutie to meet. I know they are treating their dogs really well, because I was following them for a long time. I can recommend Swag Kennels to my friends and other people who would want to get healthy puppy pitbulls. Anastasia A By the far the best kennel out there. Fady Elaiwat Purchased my beautiful Xl bullie from Swag kennels and I absolutely have to say that Yulia and her husband are the most loving, nicest people I have ever met, they know exactly what they are doing in this business they love and care for thier pets as if they are family! Always willing to answer questions Very informative And go above and beyond! Topdog Bullies is where legends are born. We have over 40 years of experience in breeding show quality topline bloodlines, and have been specializing for over 16 years in XL American Bullies XXL Pitbulls always producing the best dogs in the business with impeccable structure, stable temperaments, and sound minds. They are sturdy, tolerant and have enough energy for the most boisterous children. You wish you had muscles like that. You will never get completely out of shape; just walking an XL Bully can be a workout. You can love an American Bully XL Pitbull as hard as you like; they can take it, and they will love you back more than you can imagine. Tri colors type of tri colors of American Bullies XL and Pitbulls XXL: chocolate tri, merle tri, lilac tri, blue tri, black tri, champagne tri, ghost tri, trindle tri brindle and piebald tri. Merle Pattern has to be bred by a knowledgeable breeder to produce good healthy quality puppies. Please click link below to learn more about the merle pattern. Know your breeder and where your new baby comes from! With a state-of-the-art beautiful dog barn that is equipped with indoor and outdoor living dog quarters, all of our Pitbull kennels are heated for the cold winters and cooled for those hot TN summer days. We believe that all of our XL American Bullys and their massive Pitbull puppies should be spoiled with all the comforts and with love. All of our XL Pitbull puppies American Bully puppies are raised underfoot in our home with love and care. With acres all our XL Pitbulls and their XL Pitbull puppies have plenty of land to roam, play, and just be the playful Pitbulls that we all know them to be. We believe in a well socialized XXL Bully puppy, so therefore our XL Pitbull puppies for sale get plenty of play space indoors and outdoors. We at Topdog make sure that your new XL American Bully puppy is well socialized from day one with our children, family, friends and guests to our XL Pitbull kennel. They are very gentle and loving toward other animals and especially people. Good tempered, well mannered, extremely loyal and an affectionate family member. Mostly obedient, this dog wants nothing more than to please its human. The XL American Bully is well known for having a high tolerance for kids and an overwhelming eagerness to please its love ones. Confident, yet not aggressive, XL Bully possesses a great temperament. Physically, they have an impressive strapping build, which is both muscular and defined. They display great strength, durability, and agility. Bully Temperament It is safe to say that although this breed possesses an impressive stature, with defined muscles and a strong build, they are very, very sweet hearted and have a soft temperament. Many people believe the American Bully is simply a type of pit-bull this is false and is a common misconception towards this breed. Overall, the XL American Bully is a well-rounded, reliable, trustworthy and ideal family member mans best-friend. The XL American Bully needs an owner who is firm with a lot of patience, that's very confident, and very consistent. Always let them know whats expected of them; give rules and guidelines to follow to what they are and are not allowed to do. Establish yourself as the pack leader as dogs are naturally instinctively inclined to follow in that order. A Pit bull and American Bully are two distinct dog breeds. They also love attention, and are definitely massive affection givers, so you can expect tons and tons of licks, kisses and head tilts. They are known for being an extremely adaptable breed who are both playful and caring, this makes them an exceptional addition to families with children. The American Bully is known to be the loyalist of the many dog breeds, adding to the many reasons for why they make the perfect family pet. They range from 24 to 27 inches in height and weigh anywhere from pounds to pounds, both male and female. They can pack on size and weight very fast, so I recommend to not overfeed them and to let them grow gradually so that their bones fuse together properly. This dog was first bred in the s. The American Kennel Club does not recognize this dog breed. Their temperament has been selectively bred to produce a dog with a soft and mellow personality. They are kind, loving and gentle towards family members and do well in homes with or without kids. The appearance of this pooch closely resembles a Pitbull dog. The Bully requires 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day. Your puppy comes with all the paperwork, health records, and a small bag of food. Our program consists of some of the most respected XL Pitbull bloodlines in the American Bully community. We breed to produce quality, high end puppies for show homes, pet homes, working dog homes, and for breeding homes who want to add exceptional size, pedigree, and quality to their program. Bloodlines include gray line, Ick, gk, gotti, xb, razors edge. Ground shipping available anywhere in the US, airline shipping for international. Bully Built Bullies We searched long and hard to choose the perfect Bullies to represent and build our breeding program. Of course, size is one of the traits we look for — but we aim to create the perfect package. Looks, temperament, structure, color, stability, bone, head size, and function are just a few of the traits that are very important to us becuase we know they are important to you. We would love to hear from you! If you have any questions about an available puppy, a current or upcoming breeding, or stud service - please don't hesistate to contact us! Shipping is available Worldwide! Location:Paulding, OH. Merle is a genetic pattern that can be in a dog's coat. In addition to altering base coat color, merle also modifies eye color and coloring on the nose and paw pads. The merle gene occasionally changes dark eyes to blue, or part of the eye to be colored blue. Responsible breeders who want to produce merle puppies mate a merle with a non-merle dog; and none will have the vision or hearing defects associated with double merle dogs. Some of our dogs are available world-wide, and some are only available within the USA or only available outside of the USA. This can change at any time, so please check back at any time to see the current status. A tri carrier dog is a dog that doesn't show tan points, but can produce dogs that do. A great example of a tri-carrier dog is Triple Champion King Louii. King Louii is a lilac colored dog, and does not show any tri colors at all. But if King Louii is bred to a female that is tri, they can produce full tri-colored puppies. Tri Carrier means a dog has a single copy of the Tan Point trait heterozygous. We are looking for genetic defects within our dogs that could be passed down to their puppies. Within our program, you will see 2 different results. CRD4 is an eye condition that originated with long-haired Dachshunds, and is very common within our breed. It is estimated that over half of our breed has at least 1 trait. We wrote up an article on it, so please click below to learn more! COIs also track how related dogs are further back in the pedigree. Look back 10 generations in our own family trees and you are very unlikely to see the same name twice. This is not true for dogs, though. The same names can appear many, many times.
how to tape german shepherd puppy ears - Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation. While still young, ensure that the German shepherd is trained enough. It is required that you know how to train a German shepherd puppy not to bite. Puppies usually learn bite inhibition during play with other puppies. Puppies also bite each other all over. Every now and then, a pup will bite his playmate too hard. The victim of the painful bite yelps and usually stops playing. However, pretty soon, both playmates are back in the game. Through this kind of interaction, puppies learn to control the intensity of their bites so that no one gets hurt and the play can continue without interruption. If puppies can learn how to be gentle from each other, they can also learn the same lesson from people. There are several ways in how to train a German shepherd puppy not to bite. If you are trying to train your dog to behave and stop biting, make sure you are doing it with consistency and repetition. While training a German shepherd, you will need to repeat your technique several times until it starts to learn. Your German shepherd needs to know that biting is not acceptable and will upset you. If your dog is doing well and following your orders, do not forget to offer it a treat. Food treats are a kind of reward that you offer your dog only when it learns something. Make sure you have enough treats with you when you are training your pup. This way your German shepherd will learn that no biting means a yummy treat. These are the simple tips that we provides in our how to train a German shepherd puppy not to bite. A German shepherd is a natural boss, and will fight you for this position if you show weakness. In the first place, you should dissuade this conduct. You should stay firm and act appropriately as the leader of your household. Be commanding when it comes to your pet. An older dog may have been raised poorly. You could make your puppy stop biting by completely ignoring him when he bites. German shepherd can be taught if the owner is dedicated. Find out more here why does my german shepherd puppy wont stop biting. Post navigation.
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how to tape german shepherd puppy ears - Redirect Your Puppy to Appropriate Options If you find your puppy using their teeth on something inappropriate, such as the leg of a chair or your foot, redirect them to something that they are allowed to chew. They persistently want to nip your hands and clothes no matter what amazing stuff you show them. Or they keep going back to chomp the same corner of the coffee table despite your attempts to distract them with something else. This is where having good puppy management strategies comes into play. Puppy management refers to changing the environment to make unwanted behavior unlikely or impossible. This might mean putting your puppy in a playpen where they can only put their teeth on approved toys and chews. Perhaps you can put your puppy behind a baby gate so your pant leg is safe from their sharp little teeth. Puppy management is simple, yet critical to surviving a teething Golden Retriever puppy. Giving a teething puppy too much freedom is a recipe for disaster, so utilize puppy management whenever you need to. Your home and sanity will thank you! Remove Yourself From the Situation Playing with a teething puppy can be tricky. They want to interact with you, but their mouths are sore and painful, and it can be hard for them to not nip or chomp on your skin, clothes or hair. You can try walking away, though some puppies will get up and follow you so they can chomp you some more. Going onto the other side of a baby gate is a great way to show the puppy that they lose access to you if they get mouthy. If your puppy is tethered by their leash to something heavy, you can also get up and walk away if the biting gets to be too much. The tether keeps them from following their human chew toy. Remember that nipping and chewing are normal parts of puppy development. Punishing a puppy can sometimes make the biting even more intense, and it can also damage the trust between you and your puppy. Golden Retrievers go through two main stages of their teeth development and growth. How long does it take to grow new teeth? Do Golden Retrievers ever stop chewing? The teething fun begins at around three weeks of age. Often called their milk or deciduous teeth, it is a very deceptive name for what turns out to be a set of 28 very sharp first teeth. You will know when the teething starts, as your puppy will constantly want to chew. They will chew anything they can get their gums into. Just as human baby gets fretful when they get their first teeth, so too does your Golden Retriever puppy. Not only that, but you will also notice that they start to bite and chew everything including you! And those little bites are painful. Chewing helps to relieve the pain in their gums and soothes the irritation of the new milk teeth coming through. Your young Golden Retriever explores the world through their mouth; they taste what an object is like, they destroy it to find out how strong it is, and chewing is a comfort if they are fretful or bored. The cycle of teeth. Nature determines when your puppy gets their first teeth. Day of birth Puppies are born without any teeth. Just to reiterate the process, the milk teeth appear when they reach weeks old, beginning with the incisors that number six on the top, and six on the bottom. After that, at around 4 weeks, they will get their four canines, which are sharp long teeth. Those sharp teeth encourage the mother dog to begin weaning! This is when a puppy can be introduced to a mushy mix of food which prepares the young dog for solids. Basically, a full set of teeth for your Golden Retriever consist of 12 incisors, 4 canines, and 12 pre-molars — a total set of 28 nice sharp teeth. They must also learn that biting people is not acceptable, so as the owner of your Golden Retriever, you must walk a tightrope to balance the acceptable with the unacceptable teething traits practiced by your little pooch. And you must watch them like a hawk because anything and everything is fair game to a young Golden Retriever who is teething. Many a puppy has been rushed to the vets because they chewed and swallowed something that was not good for their digestion such as chunks of plastic or rubber! As far as when they stop chewing … the Golden Retriever never really stops. They chew as an adult if they are bored, they chew for comfort, and they chew just because they can. But they will be more controlled and will be able to be trained as to what is appropriate for them to chew on. How many permanent teeth do they get? Can you train your young dog not to bite? Golden Retriever owners usually sigh with relief as their puppy starts the second stage of their dental growth and the development of their permanent teeth. Between 4- 6 months of age , the permanent teeth come up very quickly and push the milk teeth out so you will rarely notice any gaps in their teeth. The adult incisors should be in place by the time your Golden Retriever is 5 months of age. Once they are in place, the milk teeth and canine teeth will be replaced by adult canines, followed by premolars, and lastly the molars. The complete set of adult teeth should be complete by 7- 8 months. Or in other words, they should have 42 brand new teeth. Providing plenty of safe things for your Golden to chew on will help with the painful transition from milk teeth to adult teeth. And once the permanent teeth settle in, you will notice that your little chewing monster will bite, and chew less than they used to. They will also become easier to train to stop biting people. Make sure you supply your growing pup with plenty of chew toys, ropes, and special treats that are designed to help keep the new teeth sparkling white. Remember to regularly check your Goldens toys for any broken or torn bits. The Golden Retriever will continue to chew throughout their lives but by then they will know what the best things are to chew and what is out of bounds. It is strange to note that not many owners find the milk teeth lying around. What happens to those sharp little incisors? This may seem a bit alarming, but they are usually swallowed by your Golden Retriever while they are eating. When you note what your Golden manages to eat and trust me, they will try to eat or chew just about anything, a few tiny milk teeth are going to seem like nothing in comparison. Occasionally you may find them playing with something on the floor, and you may find a small pearly white tooth, but often your dog will just gobble it down intentionally or otherwise and you will never see them. The chewing helps to dislodge the baby teeth when the new permanent teeth are coming through. Chewing also massages the gums and offers relief to a suffering pup. Give your puppy toys that have a lot of ridges and bumps on the surface. The bumps help to massage the gums and give a measure of relief to your Golden puppy. If their gums are bleeding, and this is a natural thing, try freezing the toy so that it is cooling and will relieve the bleeding when they chew. Train your puppy to let you put your finger in their mouth and you can use small pieces of ice to massage their gums. Teaching them to allow your finger in their mouth without biting it is good training for later when you want to clean their teeth. Your Golden Retriever puppy may lose their appetite when they are teething. Try giving your puppy some dry food as opposed to wet food as it is good for the development of strong gums and teeth. Provide your teething puppy with plenty of ropes and strong resilient toys to chew on or your beloved dog will use your best shoes, your handbag, and anything else they can find. Specialty toys designed for a teething dog can also be frozen and provide relief on chewing. Old rags are ideal for a chew toy. Wet them down, tie them in knots in several places, and put them in the freezer. When your dog chews crazy, throw them a rag and they will chew on it for ages. When your dog is finished chewing on a rag, rinse it off and refreeze for later. This is a cheap easy teething aid for your Golden. Patience and time are required during this stage. If you stay alert, you can guide them gently through it all by quietly taking unacceptable things that they are chewing on and replacing them with a toy of theirs. If you provide plenty of exercise time, lots of toys to play with, and appropriate chew toys during this transition time, it will be easier for your puppy. Puppies bite and chew for many reasons: They explore the world through their mouth — taste and texture are important as they learn about their world. Part of the biting and chewing is part of how your Golden plays. A Golden Retriever has been bred to use their mouths to retrieve the game and return it unharmed to their master. They learn through play what an acceptable pressure is likely to be. During the developmental teething stage, chewing and biting help to relieve the pain in their gums. And when they are bored or lonely, chewing helps them to feel better. Teaching Your Golden Retriever Not to Bite Understanding that your lovely Golden Retriever is going through a painful development teething stage is important. But just as important is that they still need to be taught what is acceptable behavior and what is not. If you leave it too late such as after the teething stage, they will have some ingrained habits such as chewing the furniture and clothing which takes some training to overcome. Be realistic and put your best shoes away up high. It amazes me that people repeatedly leave them on the floor just where your Golden can find them. Have a small toy handy when you sit and play with them. Use a clicker to train a young dog. The noise of the clicker will get their attention and they should stop and look at you. When they do, give them a reward for stopping, and then lead them onto another activity. Keep them busy. If you can wear out your Golden Retriever, they will eventually collapse and go to sleep. There is nothing so sweet as your puppy twitching and woofing in their sleep. While it may seem a very long year to Golden Retrievers owner, it does pass, and life becomes less of a watchful state and becomes more fun both for your dog and as an owner. There is no doubt that cutting new teeth is a painful rite of passage, and it requires patience on behalf of all owners who have young dogs. Even though your little Golden is only trying to find relief from the pain and is not being intentionally naughty, they must be guided on what is acceptable behavior and what is not. If you can stay one step ahead of your Golden Retriever during their first year, so much the better. Being prepared and using distraction tactics will ease you both through this unsettled stage. An offering of a new toy, taking them for a walk to distract them, or giving them a frozen broth block to lick will keep them happy. If you provide what your Golden Retriever needs during the difficult teething and development stage, you will remain one step ahead of your puppy as they go through the difficult tooth development and growth stages. Golden Retriever Resources and Tips. Premolars, which are found in the back of the mouth, emerge. However, it may also be a difficult period for both puppies and their owners since it frequently brings with it a variety of common problems and worries. Excessive chewing Chewing is a natural habit in dogs, but teething can send that instinct into overdrive. Chewing can be a self-soothing action for teething puppies but can also endanger your belongings. Drooling Is a common problem that occurs during the development of puppy teeth. This is because teething can cause discomfort and irritation in the gums and teeth, resulting in increased saliva production and drooling. Drooling is a common and transitory side effect of teething; most puppies outgrow it when their adult teeth emerge. Discomfort Teething can be a painful and complicated procedure for puppies. Therefore discomfort is a common problem during puppy teeth development. Teething can be difficult for puppies and their owners, but there are ways to help your pet! Give your puppy appropriate chew toys , soft or moist foods, and a cold compress to relieve painful gums. Remember to shower them with love and care during this stressful period. You and your pet can work together to get through teething and emerge with healthy, happy adult teeth! It can be stressful for your dog, so ensuring they have a good and balanced diet is essential to their growth, immune system, and dental health. In addition, puppies require a lot of protein, calcium, and other nutrients to create strong bones and teeth. That is why it is essential to provide them with high-quality, nutrient-rich puppy food that fits their nutritional needs. If your dog struggles, try feeding them softer, wet foods and smaller meals more frequently. You can help set your puppy up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums by providing the proper nourishment and care during teething. Ensure to provide them with love and attention throughout this time as well! Feeding your golden retriever the right foods and treats is crucial for preserving oral health and supporting good tooth development. Yummy wet food: Wet food is a tasty option for dogs with a softer texture or difficulty chewing dry kibble. Search for high-quality products that are manufactured with natural ingredients and are designed specifically for pups. Raw bones: For puppies who enjoy chewing, raw bones can be a fun and healthful treat! They can help promote strong teeth and gums and are also a good source of nutrition. Tasty Dental Chews: These delicious treats promote good tooth care and fresh breath. Just break them into small pieces and keep an eye on your pup as they munch. Remember to brush your teeth regularly and schedule frequent dental check-ups with your veterinarian! Golden retrievers are a popular breed known for their extroverted and friendly personalities. They are devoted and intelligent and make excellent family pets. They are, nevertheless, prone to dental problems, just like any other breed, if their teeth and gums are not correctly cared for. Dental problems in Golden Retrievers can cause many issues, including poor breath, gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease in dogs, is caused by bacteria in the mouth forming a sticky film called plaque. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can cause gum irritation and infection, leading to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Dogs, like humans, can suffer from dental problems that cause discomfort and pain. Fortunately, there are solutions to avoid or manage these problems! Tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease are common dental issues in dogs and can result in poor breath, tooth damage, and even tooth loss. Daily tooth brushing, regular vet check-ups, proper dental chews and toys, and eating healthy food are all part of maintaining good dental hygiene in dogs. Your veterinarian may offer treatments such as professional teeth cleaning, dental surgery, or medication to handle the problem. Is This Due To Genetics? Poor dental hygiene, sugary or carb diets and specific health conditions can all lead to dental issues in dogs. In addition, certain breeds, such as those with crowded teeth or a higher risk of certain dental conditions, may be more prone to dental difficulties due to genetics. Here are several ways to do it: Teeth Brushing Dogs, like humans, require regular dental hygiene. Brush their teeth once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste designed exclusively for dogs. Search for solutions that promote dental health and aid in removing plaque and tartar. For example, sugary and starchy foods can contribute to plaque and tartar development. Therefore a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and healthy fats is recommended. You can help your dog have healthy teeth and gums by being aware of the most common dental problems in dogs and taking steps to prevent or manage them. Regular dental checkups, daily tooth brushing, and the provision of appropriate dental chews and toys are all essential components of good oral hygiene in dogs. If their teeth and gums are not properly cared for, both male and female Golden Retrievers are equally vulnerable to dental problems. The good news is that regular dental care, daily tooth brushing, regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian, and providing proper dental chews and toys can help prevent or treat dental problems. If you own a golden retriever , you may wonder if teething affects their appetite or weight. Yes, that is doable. However, when a puppy is teething, it could experience pain and discomfort in its mouth, making them less interested in food. This could result in a decrease in their appetite and weight loss. Your golden retriever may experience discomfort as their new teeth develop during teething, which can trigger changes in its biting behaviour. To alleviate the pain, they may chew on objects more frequently or avoid specific types of food that are difficult to chew. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Premolars, located in the back of the mouth, come in. Since teething can hurt, you may notice symptoms in your Golden Retriever while they are experiencing this stage. The first symptom is usually a loss of appetite because chewing is painful for them. They seem to chew everything in sight! Doing this helps relieve their pain. Having a mix of soft and hard toys for your dog to chew on can help their gums feel better during teething. Toys with ridges and nubs can help massage the gums that are irritated, itchy, and painful. Frozen toys are also great options. The cold will help relieve the pain as your puppy chews. Even ice cubes can be a welcome chew treat during teething. Remember that this is a natural process for them, and they are trying to find relief. By providing a variety of toys and redirecting them when they start to chew other things, you can keep them occupied and entertained. Since the baby tooth is so close to the adult tooth, it creates a small space for bacteria to start growing. This can lead to a nasty infection , and the tooth would have to be removed, anyway. A surgical dental procedure will be performed to extract the tooth, and the hole in the gum line may be stitched up with dissolvable sutures. This will keep any food or debris out of it. Image Credit: Krakenimages. Usually, baby teeth fall out while a dog is chewing something. If the teeth fall out while a dog is eating, they may then swallow the teeth without even realizing it. You may come across a lone baby dog tooth on your floor sometimes, but the teeth are typically swallowed and you may never see them at all. This is nothing to worry about. The teeth will eventually pass right through their digestive systems without causing any damage. Golden Retrievers lose their baby teeth between 3 and 4 months old, and the teething process begins. It will last until the dog is around 7 months old. If you notice that your dog has remaining baby teeth after their adult teeth have completely grown in, take them to see your vet for an assessment. The baby teeth may have to be surgically removed to prevent infections and dental issues down the road. Featured Image Credit: jiayun, Shutterstock Contents. This process is known as teething. The exact age at which a Golden Retriever starts teething can vary from one dog to another. On average, a Golden Retriever will begin to lose their baby teeth at around 6 months of age, as their adult teeth grow in. Some Goldens, however, can start losing their puppy teeth also called deciduous or milk teeth as early as 4 months of age or as late as 7 or even 8 months of age. What are the signs of teething? Where do the baby teeth go? How long does it take to grow new teeth? When do Golden Retriever puppies stop chewing on everything? This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Golden Retrievers have a well-known behavior of chewing almost anything and everything they come across. As a result, they are known as natural-born chewers. While chewing is a common habit in most dogs, Golden Retrievers chew more than the average dog breed. You may have already caught your puppy tearing away at your slippers or shoes, right? So why do these pups chew so much? It is a way of exploring the world testing new things out of curiosity. Dogs belong to the Canidae family that heavily rely on their teeth for tearing and chewing flesh. Adult Goldens chew a lot when they are bored or as a way of relieving excess energy and anxiety. Your Golden Retriever will insist on chewing on things throughout his entire life. Fortunately, as your Golden gets older you can direct that chewing behavior to only appropriate items like tennis balls and chew toys. What that means is that chewing is not solely part of the teething stage. This action is more of a habit. It could also be genetic, seeing as how Goldens were originally bred to be retrievers; hence they need to learn how to control their bite force in order to retrieve game without damaging it. One of the ways they do this is by chewing. So here are a few ideas on how to stop your Golden Retriever from chewing on anything harmful or inappropriate: Shouting: Shout at your pup when you catch him chewing the wrong object like slippers or shoes. Clapping your hands is another way to distract the pup from the bad behavior. Using a commanding voice: You can use firm commands to train your Golden Retriever to stop chewing on the wrong things. Your dog will notice the tone of your voice and immediately stop what they were chewing. Switching: Instead of just stopping your dog from chewing on the wrong things, introduce chew toys. They need to understand that these items are what they can freely chew on. For more effective training, give your Golden Retriever something appropriate to chew on when you take away something inappropriate. Exercise: Your Golden Retriever may be chewing things out of boredom and pent-up energy. You may also exercise him or run around in the yard to help him burn that excess energy. Remember, Golden Retrievers love to exercise and participate in outdoor fun activities. See this Golden Retriever puppy loose one of his baby teeth. Symptoms of Puppy Teething and How To Deal With It Now that you know your Golden Retriever will start losing his teeth between the ages of four and 8 months, you might be asking yourself about the signs of teething and what to do once you notice these signs. Here are some of the most common symptoms of teething: Loss of appetite: One common sign of teething across most Golden Retrievers is a loss of appetite. This should not worry you. Dry food is good for the development of strong gums and teeth. Swollen gums: Another indicator of a teething puppy is swollen gums. Gum bleeding: When your Golden Retriever is teething, you may notice blood on his toys and other chewing objects. This is a result of bleeding gums which is a normal occurrence during teething. So what do you do when you see these signs? First, rest assured that all these are normal happenings. It means your Golden Retriever puppy is growing just as he should. Consider toys with a lot of ridges and nubs on them. Have a variety of both soft and hard toys. Frozen objects and cow hooves are other good recommendations for chewing in pups during teething. Some people also give them to adult dogs. You may also put knots in a few clean washcloths and put them into the freezer. Once frozen, throw them to your Golden and watch as he chews. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! A chew toy like the one pictured above Amazon is an excellent way to help your Golden with his painful teething issues. The nubs on the toy relieve the uncomfortable feeling in his teeth, and you can even freeze the toy to help with the pain of swollen gums. To lessen the teething pain further, you can try placing a few small pieces of ice cubes in his mouth. Not only can this help to ease the pain, it will prepare him for when you begin brushing his teeth later on. At some point you may notice some gaps in your Goldens mouth and realize that some of his baby teeth are missing. As a general rule, teething Golden Retrievers often lose their baby teeth while eating or chewing, causing them to swallow the teeth instead of them falling out onto the ground. A Golden Retriever swallowing their lost puppy teeth is no cause for alarm, as the baby teeth will harmlessly pass through their system. Your Golden Retriever will obviously not talk to let you know it has lost, or chewed and swallowed, a puppy tooth. Most dogs, Golden Retrievers included, will lose their baby teeth as they eat and swallow them together with food. Some may lose them during object or toy-chewing. Another thing to note about teething is that pups lose their baby teeth systematically. This starts with the incisors, then canine, also called fangs, and finally premolars. However, this is not a hard and fast rule when it comes to tooth loss. Molars come in with the new set of adult teeth. All dog breeds, including Golden Retrievers, will start developing baby teeth at weeks. A full set of 28 baby deciduous teeth will finally occur at around the sixth week. On average your Golden Retriever will have baby teeth for six months, then shed them for a new set of adult teeth. Adult teeth come in almost immediately after losing the baby teeth. Baby teeth come out as a result of pushing by the adult teeth coming in. The gaps are filled in very quickly by the adult teeth. In the end, your Golden Retriever will have 42 permanent teeth in his mouth, including molars. In some cases, you may notice a baby tooth that has refused to budge even after an adult tooth has fully grown behind it. If this happens, take your Golden Retriever to a vet for diagnosis. In general, a Golden Retriever puppy will want to chew on everything until they are through the teething phase at between 6 to 8 months of age. At this point, the chewing will lessen, but Golden Retrievers will continue to chew throughout their lives. By then they will have learned to only chew on appropriate items. Your Golden Retriever will lose his baby teeth between the age of 4 and 6 months, as his adult teeth are pushing through the gums. Training Tips Golden Retrievers are intelligent, friendly, and adorable giants who make amazing family pets. And those teeth are sharp! The puppy teething period starts around 2—4 weeks old when their baby teeth, or deciduous teeth , start to come in. By 5—6 weeks old, all of their deciduous teeth should be in—a total of .These include 12 incisors, 4 canines, and 12 molars. In some cases, it can even cause bleeding, swelling, and inflammation. Think of it as a massage for their gums. In addition to the physical pain, teething can also be a stressful time for your puppy. Their whole world is changing. When Do Puppies Stop Teething? Of course, every puppy is different. Some may stop biting sooner than others. And some may never completely lose their biting habits. Offer Them Chew Toys Chew toys are a great way to help your puppy through the teething process. As for the best chew toys to give your puppy , choose ones that are soft and pliable. Hard toys can damage their new teeth. You can also buy puppy versions of baby teething toys, which you can freeze to help soothe their gums. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock 2. Consider using baby gates to block off certain areas of your home, like the kitchen or your bedroom. Cover Your Legs and Arms This is optional, but it can help you avoid getting bitten. This will create a barrier between their teeth and your skin. Image Credit: Damix, Shutterstock 4. A large breed puppy needs a diet formulated for their needs. Give Them a Calming Activity If your puppy is starting to get stressed out, consider giving them a licki mat. There are a variety on the market and the act of licking food from these textured surfaces can help relax your puppy. Image Credit: Shell, Shutterstock 6. Establish and Follow a Routine A routine can help your puppy feel more secure during this chaotic time. Try to stick to a regular feeding and potty schedule. And make sure to provide them with plenty of opportunities for play and exercise. A tired puppy is a happy puppy! Get Them Checked by a Vet If your puppy is having a lot of trouble with teething, or if they seem to be in pain, make an appointment with your veterinarian. They can check to make sure their teeth are coming in properly, and they may be able to recommend a pain relief medication if your puppy is experiencing severe distress. Here are a few tips for training your Golden Retriever puppy to stop biting: 1. Image Credit: Ovchinnikova, Shutterstock 2. Redirect Their Biting Behavior To redirect means to change the focus of their attention. So, if your puppy starts to bite you, give them something else to focus on, like a chew toy or a bone. The key is to make sure the toy is more interesting to them than your arm or leg. Instead, try to ignore them completely. Over time, this will teach them that the fun times stop when they start to bite. Image Credit By: belefront, Shutterstock 4. Give Them Time-Outs Puppies still have a hard time regulating their emotions, so they can get overstimulated and bite out of excitement or frustration. If your puppy is starting to get too rowdy, give them a time-out by putting them in their crate or another designated area for a few minutes to calm down. Tired Out Puppy Puppies also bite when they are overtired. Ensure that your pup is getting enough sleep during the day and if necessary help them calm down and settle in for a nap. Adult Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, may be bored, they are an active breed , so they need at least 60 minutes of exercise every day, preferably in the form of a vigorous walk or run. Throw in some mental games too, such as puzzle toys or training sessions, to help wear them out both physically and mentally. But it will help you be more patient with them as they go through this difficult stage. Remember, puppies are just like babies at times. They need lots of love, patience, and understanding as they grow and learn. With time and training, your Golden Retriever puppy will outgrow this phase and become the well-behaved, lovable dog you know they can be.